Communication is something many of us take for granted until a child struggles to say their first words, pronounce certain sounds, or express themselves clearly. Yet despite how common speech and language difficulties can be, many families still face stigma, shame and harmful myths, with some children unfairly labelled as “slow”, “lazy” or simply told they will “grow out of it.”

But speech and language disorders can affect a child’s confidence, learning, behaviour and social development if left unaddressed. We are in conversation with Speech language therapist and audiologist,  Dr Xoli Mazibuko as we unpack the myths and misconceptions surrounding speech disorders in children, how to recognise the warning signs early, and when it may be time to seek professional help.