Zpožděná řeč u dětí: příčiny, kdy se léčit a co dělat

When a child doesn't speak as expected, it's natural to worry. zpožděná řeč, vývojové zpoždění v řeči, kdy dítě mluví později než spolužáci, ale bez jiných vývojových poruch. Also known as vývojové zpoždění řeči, it doesn't mean the child is slow or unintelligent—it just means their brain is taking a little longer to connect sounds into words. Many parents notice this around age two or three, when other kids are putting together sentences and their child still uses just a few words. The good news? Most of the time, it's not a sign of something serious.

It’s important to know the difference between vývojové zpoždění řeči and poruchy řeči. The first is just late talking—like a child who walks a few months later than others but walks just fine. The second involves actual difficulties with articulation, understanding language, or using grammar correctly. If your child understands everything you say, follows instructions, points to things they want, and tries to communicate—even with gestures—then it’s likely just a delay. But if they seem disconnected, don’t respond to their name, or avoid eye contact, that’s a different story.

What causes delayed speech? Sometimes it’s just genetics—if Mom or Dad talked late, the child might too. Other times, it’s environmental: too much screen time, not enough conversation, or a busy household where no one has time to sit and talk. Even hearing problems—like fluid behind the eardrums after frequent colds—can slow things down. And yes, logopedie can help, but not always right away. Many kids catch up on their own by age four, especially with lots of reading, singing, and talking at home.

So what should you do? Start by talking more. Describe what you’re doing: "Mám teď umyvadlo, teď si myju ruce." Read picture books every day—even if they just stare. Don’t correct mistakes harshly. Instead, repeat the word correctly: if they say "wabbit," say "Yes, a rabbit!" Don’t rush them. Give them time. And if by age three they still have fewer than 50 words or don’t combine words at all, it’s time to see a logopedist. No need to panic, but don’t wait too long either.

You’ll find real stories here—parents who waited, parents who acted, and what actually worked. We’ve collected advice from logopedists, pediatricians, and families who’ve been there. You’ll learn when to wait, when to act, and how to turn everyday moments into language-building opportunities. No jargon. No pressure. Just clear, practical steps you can start today.