When Should Children Start Speaking Normally? Speech Development

At what age do children typically start to speak normally?

Hello Dr.
Tsai: My child is two years and two months old, but he still cannot speak normally and only repeats two words, such as "daddy," "mommy," "car," etc.
(although he still doesn't repeat many two-word phrases).
However, his behavior is completely normal, and he understands everything we say, so I am unsure if this is a language delay.
What methods can I use to enhance his language learning, or which specialist should I consult to understand his actual condition? I apologize for taking up your valuable time.
Thank you!

Danxin Mami, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/27

Dr. Cai Zhengxian reply Pediatrics

Dear Mom,
I apologize for the delay in responding due to my job transfer.
The developmental assessment for a child who is two years old typically includes gross motor development, fine motor development, social interaction development, and language development.
From your description, it seems that the gross motor and social interaction skills are progressing well, but the language development is a bit slower.
This may be due to expressive language development lagging behind receptive language development, meaning he understands what is said but speaks less.
My suggestion is to create opportunities for your child to practice speaking.
For example, you could purchase a picture book with everyday objects like cars and baseballs.
Spend about 30 minutes each day teaching him to recognize the pictures and their names.
This stage in development is referred to as the "naming period." When you encounter items he has learned in daily life, you can help him review by adding "ah!" after each noun, such as "This is a car, ah!" or "This is a baseball, ah!" Using exaggerated expressions and gestures can aid his memory.
Please do not be too hard on him; I believe your child will learn happily.
However, if he consistently does not understand what is taught, please make sure to take him for a hearing evaluation.
Thank you! The Tainan City Hospital cares about you and your baby's health!

Reply Date: 2005/07/27

More Info

When it comes to children's speech development, it's important to understand that there is a wide range of what is considered "normal." By the age of two, children typically should be able to say at least 50 words and start combining two words to form simple sentences, such as "want cookie" or "go car." However, every child develops at their own pace, and some may take a bit longer to reach these milestones.

In your case, your child is 2 years and 2 months old and is only repeating two-syllable words like "daddy" and "mama." While it's encouraging that your child understands what is being said and can follow instructions, the limited verbal output may raise some concerns. Repetition of sounds or words is common in early language development, but if a child is not progressing to more complex speech by the age of two, it may be beneficial to seek further evaluation.

Here are some points to consider regarding your child's speech development:
1. Understanding vs. Speaking: It's a positive sign that your child can understand language and follow commands. This indicates that their receptive language skills are developing well. However, expressive language skills (the ability to speak) may still need support.

2. Normal Developmental Range: Children develop language skills at different rates. Some may be late talkers, which is not uncommon. However, if your child is not showing any progress in expanding their vocabulary or combining words by the age of two and a half, it may be time to consult a professional.

3. Encouraging Speech: To enhance your child's language skills, consider the following strategies:
- Engage in Conversations: Talk to your child frequently, narrating your actions and describing objects around you. This helps them learn new words in context.

- Read Together: Reading books with your child can introduce them to new vocabulary and concepts. Choose interactive books that encourage participation.

- Play and Imitation: Engage in play that involves role-playing or imitating sounds and actions. This can make learning fun and encourage verbal expression.

- Limit Screen Time: Encourage more face-to-face interactions rather than passive screen time, which can hinder language development.

4. When to Seek Help: If you notice that your child is not progressing in their speech development, or if they are not using any words by the age of 18 months, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist. They can conduct a thorough assessment to determine if there are any underlying issues affecting your child's speech and language development.

5. Potential Evaluations: A pediatrician can rule out any hearing issues or developmental delays. If necessary, they may refer you to a speech-language pathologist who specializes in assessing and treating speech and language disorders.

In summary, while your child's current speech development may be within the normal range for some late talkers, it is essential to monitor their progress. Engaging them in language-rich activities and seeking professional advice if there are concerns can significantly support their speech development. Early intervention is key in addressing any potential language delays, so don't hesitate to reach out for help if needed.

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