Can there be speech delay without autism?

Yes, speech delay can occur without autism. While speech delay is a common symptom of autism, it is not exclusive to the condition. There are many other possible causes of speech delay, including:

- Hearing impairment

- Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome

- Genetic disorders

- Intellectual disability

- Environmental factors such as neglect or abuse

It is important to note that speech delay does not always indicate an underlying medical condition. In some cases, children may simply develop speech skills at a slower pace than their peers. If you are concerned about your child's speech development, it is important to talk to a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.