Every child develops at their own pace, yet speech and language growth follows a broadly predictable path. Knowing the typical speech milestones helps parents celebrate progress, and notice early when professional support may help.
By 12 months
- Babbles with varied sounds like "ba-ba" and "da-da"
- Responds to their name and simple words like "no"
- Uses gestures such as waving or pointing
- May say one or two meaningful words
By 18 months
- Says around 10 to 20 words
- Points to familiar objects and body parts when asked
- Follows simple one-step instructions
By 2 years
- Uses 50 or more words
- Begins combining two words, like "more milk"
- Family members understand about half of what the child says
By 3 years
- Speaks in short sentences of three or more words
- Asks simple questions and follows two-step instructions
- Strangers understand most of the child's speech
When to consider a speech assessment
Consider a speech and language assessment if your child is not babbling by 12 months, has no words by 18 months, is not combining words by two and a half years, or if speech remains very hard to understand at three. Seek an assessment promptly any time a child loses skills they previously had.
Early support makes a lasting difference
Speech therapy for young children is play-based, gentle and family-centred. Parents learn simple activities for home, and small consistent steps produce remarkable progress. If you are unsure, an assessment offers clarity and peace of mind. There is nothing to lose by checking early, and a great deal to gain.
Wondering about your child's speech?
A gentle, play-based assessment gives you clear answers.
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