Language Development
Every child’s language development is different from one to the next, but most follow a general timeline when speaking, so trust your instincts if you notice any delays.
12 months old:
• Your child is able to say “mama†or “dadaâ€.
• Uses gestures such as pointing, shaking his/her head or waving.
• Understand and respond to words such as “helloâ€, “bye-byeâ€, “yes†or “noâ€.
• Would point things out such as a car, bird or plane.
• Starts to communicate needs without crying (sometimes)
18 months old:
• Points to one body part when asked
• Can point to something they want
• Can wave “hello†and “bye-byeâ€
• Can say at least 6-10 words
• Is able to communicate with you when he/she requires help
• Recognises himself/herself in the mirror or pictures and might even say his/her name
• Will laugh at something funny or silly
19-24 months old:
• Should know at least one word a week
• Can follow two-step directions
24 months old:
• Starts to join two words together such as “have please†or “cold waterâ€
• Can identify names and pictures
• Imitates others actions
• Plays pretend games with toys
• Responds to simple directions
• Can identify objects at home such as a spoon or a toothbrush, etc.
• Can say close to 50 words
25 months old:
• Uses around two to four words in a sentence
• Can name more than one body part
• Is familiar with songs and nursery rhymes
• Starts to ask questions
30 months old:
• Should now be understood by people who are normally around the child
36 months old:
• Should now be understood by people who don’t normally see the child
• Uses pronouns such as I, you and me
3 years old:
• Start speaking in short phrases and understand instructions
• Loves and enjoys being around other children
• Has clearer speech
4 years old:
• Understands single consonants and the concept for the “same†and “differentâ€.
• Uses pronouns properly
Helpful Resource:
www.babycentre.com
What To Expect The Second Year by: Heidi Murkoff