Developmental Milestones – Speech/Language
Language is how we communicate as humans. As newborns, language means crying, and new parents quickly learn the crying cues and how to respond to them. As children grow, so does their vocabulary, or expressive speech. Learning new words is a fun and rewarding experience for both children and their parents.
Here is a guide for developmental milestones in regards to language development from birth to age 4 years. This is not to be used in place of screening tests in the Pediatrician’s office but rather to help parents know what to expect at each stage. Expressive speech delay does occur commonly and can be treated with a referral to a Speech Therapist.
Newborn – cries with discomfort
1 month – startles and responds to unexpected noises. Makes brief short vowel sounds
2 months – vocalizes with cooing
4 months – turns towards voices. Vocalizes with extended cooing noises at other people
6 months – babbles with consonant noises – “ba-” and “ga-” sounds.
9 months – says “dada” or “mama” sounds nonspecifically
12 months – says “Dada” or “Mama” specifically. Uses 1 other word. Follows verbal commands that include a gesture, ie “come here” with a hand signal.
15 months – uses 3-5 words other than names. Jabbers. Follows verbal commands without a gesture.
18 months – Uses 6-10 words other than names. Points to identify at least 2 body parts.
24 months – Uses 50 words. Combines 2-3 words into phrases. 50% of speech is understood by strangers. Follows 2-step commands.
3 years – Uses 3-word sentences. 75% of speech is understood by strangers. Understands simple prepositions such as “on” or “under.” Knows name, age, and gender.
4 years – Uses 4-word sentences. 100% of speech is understood by strangers.
If you have concerns about your child not meeting these speech and language milestones, please make an appointment to see your child’s Pediatrician for further evaluation.
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