What apps or shows are helpful for children with speech delays? 

Parenting Perspective 

Choose Interactive, Not Passive, Content 

When your child has a speech delay, the right screen time can be more than entertainment; it can be a useful tool to build confidence and encourage words. However, not all apps or shows are equally helpful. The goal is to choose options that support interaction, not just passive watching. 

Helpful Apps 

Look for apps that encourage your child to repeat sounds, match words to pictures, or practise turn-taking. Many parents find apps like Speech Blubs, Endless Alphabet, or Peekaboo Barn helpful for young children. These apps use clear visuals and gentle repetition, which are easier for children with speech difficulties to process. 

Connect Screen Learning to Real Life 

Keep the sessions short and engaging. Sit with your child when possible, pause to repeat words, celebrate when they try a new sound, and use the same words in daily life: ‘You found a cat! Let us look for a real cat outside!’ This builds a connection between the screen and the real world. 

Helpful Shows 

When it comes to shows, choose slow-paced programmes with clear speech and simple plots. Many parents find shows like Sesame Street, Bluey, or Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood useful because they model everyday conversation and social skills. For Islamic learning, short videos with clear Qur’an recitation or basic Arabic letters can be helpful too but keep it simple. 

Remember, screens should support real-life interaction, not replace it. What grows speech best is you. Talk about what you see on screen, pause to ask simple questions, and keep daily chats going. Everyday moments like reading books together, singing simple rhymes, or describing what you see outside are just as powerful as any app. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to protect and nurture our children’s hearts and minds. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Balad (90), Verse 4: 

‘Indeed, we have created man into hardship. ‘

This Ayah reminds us that every struggle, including delayed speech, is part of our test and growth, and that gentle effort brings reward. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ showed us that teaching should be gentle and suited to each person’s ability. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 924, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: 

‘spoke clearly, repeating his words three times when needed so his listeners could understand…[and] never overwhelmed people with too much at once.‘

Make a small Dua: ‘O Allah Almighty, open my child’s tongue and make speech easy for them.’ Trust that your patient guidance, combined with good tools, will bear fruit in its time, and that your effort is seen and rewarded by Allah Almighty. 

With calm choices, short sessions, and faith in Allah Almighty’s mercy, you can use screens wisely, helping your child find their voice, one gentle word at a time.