toddler speech evaluation Cambodia

As a parent in Phnom Penh, it can be worrying when your child’s speech development doesn’t match that of their peers. Many families wonder: “Is this just a delay, or is it something more serious?” At OrbRom Center, we work with families every day to help them understand the difference between a speech delay and a speech disorder, and to guide them on the next steps. Knowing the distinction is the first step toward getting your child the right support.

What Is a Speech Delay?

A speech delay occurs when a child is developing speech and language skills in the correct sequence but at a slower rate than typical for their age.

Common signs include:

• Not babbling by 12 months

• Speaking fewer than 50 words by age 2

• Difficulty combining words into short phrases by age 3

Children with speech delays often catch up with early speech therapy, especially when intervention starts young.

What Is a Speech Disorder?

A speech disorder means there is a disruption in the normal process of producing sounds, words, or language. It does not always improve on its own without therapy.

Types of speech disorders include:

• Articulation disorders: Difficulty pronouncing sounds correctly

• Fluency disorders: Stuttering or repeating sounds and words

• Voice disorders: Abnormal pitch, volume, or quality of voice

Children with speech disorders need structured therapy to address these issues.

How Can Cambodian Parents Tell the Difference?

While both conditions affect communication, the main difference lies in severity and persistence.

• A speech delay may improve naturally or with minimal intervention.

• A speech disorder typically requires a formal diagnosis and therapy by a trained professional.

If your child in Phnom Penh struggles to be understood, avoids talking, or becomes frustrated when communicating, it’s time for an evaluation at OrbRom Center.

How OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh Can Help

At OrbRom Center, our experienced speech-language therapists provide expert evaluations and design personalized treatment plans for both speech delays and speech disorders. We use fun, play-based activities that keep children motivated while building essential communication skills.

Our services include:

• Receptive and expressive language development

• Articulation and fluency therapy

• Parent education to reinforce progress at home

We are committed to helping children in Phnom Penh build strong communication skills and confidence.

Don’t Wait to Get Help

The earlier you seek support, the better the outcome for your child. If you are unsure whether your child has a speech delay or a speech disorder, contact OrbRom Center today for a professional consultation and start your child on the path to communication success.

We are the only Preschool specialized on children with special needs in PhnomPenh.

• Internationally qualified teachers
• Cambodia’s largest sensory room
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Covered outdoor playground