Is your child talking less than other kids their age?
In California, you can get a free speech evaluation. Early Start helps if your child is under 3, and your public school district helps from age 3. Choose your city to see who to call and what happens next.
If something on this list worries you, you don’t need to wait and see. You can ask for a free evaluation right away.
Each city guide shows who to call, what therapy costs, what happens next and places nearby to talk and play.
Don’t see your city? Early Start and public school districts serve families across California.
An evaluation is a check of how your child talks and understands words. It usually happens through play, often with a speech therapist.
Early Start is California’s early intervention program for babies and toddlers up to 36 months. Regional centers run it, and yours depends on where you live.
Your district evaluates children from age 3, even before kindergarten. Ask in writing for a speech and language evaluation.
Your child’s doctor can refer you to a speech therapist. You can also contact a children’s hospital or a private clinic.
These services are run independently of Speech Blubs.
Short answers about free help, costs and the app.
The evaluation is free: through Early Start under age 3, or through your public school district from age 3. School speech services are free if your child qualifies. Early Start therapy may be billed to Medi-Cal or your health insurance. Find free help.
Medi-Cal covers medically necessary speech therapy for children. Private plans differ, so call the number on your insurance card and ask about pediatric speech therapy. Find free help.
Not for Early Start or the school district: you can contact them yourself. Medi-Cal and many insurance plans may ask for a referral from your child’s doctor. Find free help.
Many 2-year-olds put two words together, like “more milk.” If your child doesn’t yet, it’s a good time to ask Early Start for a free evaluation. You don’t need to wait and see. Find free help.
No. Speech Blubs is an app with short activities to practice together at home. A speech therapist evaluates your child and plans the therapy.
