Speech and Language Development

Speech and Language Development

“When should my child say his/her first words?” “Is this typical for his/her age?” These are common questions Speech-Language Pathologists receive from parents of young children. May is Speech and Hearing month and a great opportunity to ensure your child is meeting his/her speech and language goals.

The following is a list of some communication skills by age. A referral to a Speech-Language Pathologist is recommended if any of the milestones are not being met.

Early intervention is critical for children with communication problems. 

At 6 months, does your child:

• Turn his/her eyes or head toward sound?
• Babble and make different sounds (e.g. “aha’, “baba”, raspberries, squeals, growls)?
• Make sounds back when you talk?
• Enjoy games like peek-a-boo?

At 18 months, does your child:

• Use at least 10 words?
• Respond to routine questions such as “where is the dog”?
• Follow simple one-step instructions such as, “give me the ball”?

At 2 years of age, does your child:

• Use at least 50 words? Combine words in two-word phrases?
• Point to the correct picture when asked?
• Follow two-step instructions such as, “go upstairs and bring me your doll”?

At 3 years of age, does your child:

• Use at least 500 words? Combine words into three-word phrases?
• Understand concepts such as big/little, in/on/under?
• Ask why questions?
• Are people outside of the family able to understand your child?

At 4 years of age, does your child:

• Use 1000-1500 words? Combine words into 4-6 word sentences?
• Follow three or more step instructions such as, “First get some paper, then draw a picture, and last give it to mom”?
• Ask a lot of questions?

A referral is also recommended for any of the following:

• Voice is continuously hoarse.
• Sounds and/or words are repeated often.
• Your child acts frustrated when trying to talk.
• Play or social skills seem inappropriate.
• Literacy skills are behind grade/age expectations.
• Limited interest in toys and/or plays with them in an unusual way.
• Has lost words he/she used to say.
• Most importantly, YOU are concerned with your child’s speech and/or language development.

Early intervention is critical for children with communication problems.

If you are concerned with your child’s speech and language development, a Speech-Language Pathologist can assess your child to determine if his/her speech and language skills are age appropriate, provide intervention, parent strategies and resources.