Speech & Language · 3 min read
Speech and Language Milestones by Age: Is My Child On Track?
What to expect from your child's speech and language from 12 months to age 5, and when it's worth getting advice.
One of the most common questions parents ask is:
“Is my child’s speech and language development on track?”
It’s natural to compare your child to others, especially if you’re worried about their communication. The good news is that children don’t read milestone charts. Every child develops at their own pace.
Speech and language milestones are best thought of as a guide, not a deadline. Being a little behind in one area isn’t always a cause for concern, but milestones can help you spot when extra support may be helpful.
It’s also important to remember that communication is about more than talking. Understanding language, using gestures, playing with others and interacting socially are all important parts of development too.
A Note About Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)
Some children learn language in a different way known as Gestalt Language Processing. These children may use longer, remembered phrases (sometimes called delayed echolalia) before developing more flexible, self-generated language. This can look different from the communication milestones described below.
If your child is using scripts, favourite phrases, or language they’ve heard elsewhere, it’s worth looking at the meaning behind those words rather than focusing on word counts alone.
By 12 Months
Many babies will:
- Babble using different sounds, such as “bababa” or “dada”
- Respond to their name
- Use gestures like waving, reaching or pointing
- Enjoy simple back-and-forth games such as peekaboo
By 18 Months
Many toddlers will:
- Use several single words
- Point to show things they’re interested in
- Follow simple instructions
- Understand much more than they can say
By 2 Years
Many children will:
- Use around 50 words or more
- Start combining words, such as “more juice”
- Name familiar people and objects
- Enjoy simple pretend play
By 3 Years
Many children will:
- Use short sentences
- Be understood by familiar adults most of the time
- Ask lots of questions
- Follow longer instructions
- Begin playing alongside and with other children
By 4 Years
Many children will:
- Use longer, connected sentences
- Tell simple stories about their day
- Be understood by most people
- Enjoy jokes, rhymes and silly language
By 5 Years
Many children will:
- Use clear speech most of the time
- Hold conversations and take turns
- Follow multi-step instructions
- Use words such as because, so and if
When Should I Seek Advice?
Children develop at different rates, so try not to panic if your child isn’t meeting every milestone exactly.
However, it may be worth speaking to a Speech and Language Therapist if your child:
- Isn’t babbling by 12 months
- Has few or no words by age 2
- Loses words or communication skills they previously had
- Is difficult to understand after age 3
- Seems to have difficulty understanding language
- Becomes frustrated when trying to communicate
- Isn’t interacting or connecting in the way you’d expect
Trust your instincts. You know your child best.
The Good News
Early support can make a real difference, and you don’t need to wait until difficulties become significant before seeking advice.
At Speech Stuff, we look beyond word counts. We consider communication, play, interaction, sensory processing and understanding to build a picture of each child’s strengths and needs. We also recognise that children develop communication skills in different ways, including children who use a Gestalt Language Processing style.
Sometimes a child simply needs a little extra support. Sometimes there may be a broader reason for their communication difficulties. Either way, understanding what’s going on is the first step.
If you’re unsure about your child’s speech and language development, book a free 20-minute call. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you decide whether further support may be helpful.
Related: Helping a Late Talker at Home · Speech Delay or Autism? · Terms explained