How to Help Your Child Communicate—Even Before a Diagnosis

Listen on: Apple│Spotify│YouTube

There’s nothing more powerful than that first real connection between a parent and their child—a shared look, a gesture, a smile that says, “I see you.” But when your child isn’t using words yet—or isn’t communicating at all—it can feel like the world is frozen. You’re stuck waiting, worrying, wondering what to do.

In this heartfelt solo episode, I share my own journey with my son Talal, who, before being diagnosed as deaf, experienced major speech delays. As a parent and a clinician, I thought I was doing everything “right”—but nothing was working. What helped us shift from silence to connection wasn’t a diagnosis, it was a shift in approach.

Instead of falling into the familiar (and anxiety-fueled) trap of “wait and see,” I learned to shape as I wait.
This means observing and responding. Listening and guiding. It means teaching the brain to communicate before we even know the full reason it’s struggling.

In this episode, I unpack:

• The problem with “wait and see” when it comes to early communication

• What it means to shape the brain toward connection

• How to know if your child understands you—even if they don’t respond

• Why communication isn’t about words—it’s about wanting to connect

Whether your child is awaiting a diagnosis, already has one, or is simply struggling to express themselves, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, not stuck.