Late Language Emergence (LLE) refers to a significant delay in expressive language development in toddlers, typically identified when a child uses fewer than 50 words or does not combine words by age two. Children with LLE have normal hearing and cognitive development but begin speaking later than peers. Some outgrow the delay naturally, but others continue to have language or reading challenges. SLPs assess risk and determine whether monitoring or intervention is needed. Early support can improve outcomes and identify ongoing language needs.
Zubrick, Stephen R., et al. Late Language Emergence at 24 Months. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research 50, no. 6 (2007).
Rescorla, Leslie. Late Talkers: Do Good Predictors of Outcome Exist? Developmental Disabilities Research Reviews 17, no. 2 (2011).
