As a result of her family's journey with childhood apraxia of speech, Vicky Starling often serves as a mentor to parents of newly diagnosed apraxic children or children that aren't talking at all. Here is her advice:

• With cognitive delays, people say to follow your instincts. If you suspect that your child is having a problem, seek help.

• If your child is 2 and not talking, you need to get a thorough evaluation. There is a difference between a child who is slow to talk and one who doesn't say a word.

• You don't have to have a child who is off-the-charts in every direction to have an issue on your hands. It's O.K. to go see a specialist. What's it going to hurt? And, if something is found, the earlier you can begin treating it, the better.

• Avoid being defensive when a family member or friend shares concerns; try to remember they are coming from a loving place.

• Finally, take advantage of state and federal funding for expensive treatments. Talk with your child's teachers and therapists to find out how to apply, and be patient, because it is a lengthy, taxing, often frustrating process.