A survey of more than 1,000 parents found that one in six children – and nearly one quarter of boys – experience some difficulties in learning to talk.
The poll, which found no marked differences in social background, found that only 54 per cent of the children who had difficulties received help from a speech and language therapist, with others receiving help from nursery or playgroup staff or helpers, and nearly a quarter (23 per cent) not receiving any help at all.
Communication champion for children Jean Gross said: "It is essential that all children get the help they need from skilled professionals as early as possible. The lack of this is cause for great concern."
Virginia Beardshaw, chief executive of children's communication charity I Can, said "We know there is a 'golden period' for developing children's communication between nought to five and that early intervention is vital if children are struggling."
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