Speech teaches a child to use words to communicate with others. It’s how they show what they want, feel, or see.
Most babies start with crying, then slowly say small sounds like “ma” or “ba.” Later, they learn full words and start joining words. Isn’t it cool how some kids talk early and others take longer? Every child is different. Something might also take time to speak, or may not be able to speak like other children of their age. They may need a speech therapist for kids in that scenario. Still, there are some things that we look for at each age.
2 Year Old Speech Development - What to Expect
This is considered normal 2 year old speech development. But if your child is not doing these things, it may be a good idea to look closer.
At 2 years of age, most children:
Say 50 or more different words
Can join two words together like “want water” or “go park”
Can identify body parts like nose and eyes
Can follow simple directions like “bring your shoes”
What Is a Late Talking Toddler?
A late talking toddler is a child who understands what you say but does not speak much. In some cases, late talkers catch up by themselves as they grow. In other cases, they may need support.
The child may:
Use only gestures like pointing, instead of speaking
Nod or shake head but not use words
Say just one or two words like “no,” “mama,” or “ball”
Signs of Delayed Speech in Toddlers
If you see these signs, there may be a delay in your child’s 2 year old speech development.
Let’s look at some clues that can help us see if a little one needs more time to talk. That’s okay:
At 1 year:
Child is not saying “mama” or “papa”
Not waving “bye-bye”
Doesn’t respond to name
At 18 months:
Child says less than 10 words
Doesn’t point at things they want
Doesn’t try to copy your words
At 2 years:
Says fewer than 50 words
Can’t join two words together
Speech may be unclear to those outside the family
Doesn’t follow simple instructions
Why Does Delayed Speech in Toddlers Happen?
There are many things that can make a child talk later than others.
1. Hearing Problems
If the child can’t hear well, it becomes harder to learn words. Even ear infections can affect hearing for some time.
2. Tongue or Mouth Issues
Sometimes, children have tight tongue muscles (called tongue-tie) or problems with how the mouth moves. This may cause difficulty speaking clearly.
3. Not Enough Talking at Home
Children learn by listening. If people don’t talk much with the child, the child may not learn to speak well.
4. Other Developmental Conditions
Some kids do other things late too, like walking, playing or showing emotions. This can also affect speech.
5. Autism or Similar Concerns
When kids don’t talk quickly, it might be because of autism. These children may not like eye contact, don’t play with others, or don’t show emotions clearly.
When Should You Worry About a Late Talking Toddler?
It is normal to worry as a parent. You may wonder if your child is just taking time or if something is wrong. If you notice these things, your child might be a late talking toddler with a chance of delayed speech in toddlers.
If these things happen, it’s a good idea to check with a doctor at any child development centre or speech expert.:
Child does not say at least 50 different words by 2 years
Does not put two words together, like “want toy,” or “drink water,”
Only points or cries to ask for things
Does not follow simple instructions like “sit down”
Doesn’t try to repeat sounds or words
What You Can Do at Home
There are many simple ways you can help your child talk more.
1. Talk Often
Even if your child doesn’t reply, keep talking. For example, say, “Look, the ball is red.” This helps children learn new words.
2. Read Together
Looking at books with big pictures and simple words. Reading with love. Let the child point and name things. Reading books with large pictures and easy words.
3. Listen and Wait
Give your child time to speak. Don’t finish their sentences. Even if they say only part of the word, praise them.
4. Play and Sing
Playing fun games like peek-a-boo or pretend cooking helps kids say new words. Rhymes and songs are also very helpful.
5. Repeat Words
Say words again and again. If your child says “ba” for a ball, say “Yes, that is a ball.” Repeating helps the brain remember.
When to Visit a Speech Therapist
If you have tried the home ways and still feel your child is not speaking as expected, it is okay to ask for help. A speech therapist is a person who helps children learn to talk. They do fun exercises and games that help with speaking.
You can also visit a child development doctor or pediatrician. They will check how well your child can hear, understand, and grow.
Getting help early is better. Early help means the child may start talking well before school starts.
All children grow at their own speed. Some talk early, some walk early, some take time for everything. It’s okay if it takes more time, it doesn’t mean there’s a problem. But if the delay is too much, or you are worried, it is always good to ask someone who understands child growth.
Helping a late talking toddler is possible. With time, love, and the right support at Continua Kids, many children catch up and do very well. [NG-FA]
Also Read:
