Average age to start talking. My toddler is slow to speak

Average Age to Start Talking. My Toddler Is Slow to Speak

• Children under one year. Between 2 and 4 months, a child starts making sounds and attempts to communicate with parents. By six months, infants respond to intonation and say a few syllables. By their first birthday, children may attempt short words.
• Children under two years. During this time, children usually start repeating many words after adults, often imitating rather than speaking clearly. They form simple sentences like: "Give me porridge!" or "I want to drink!" It is rare for children of this age to pronounce words perfectly; it is mostly mimicry. However, children begin to recognize and name objects, identify primary colors, and build a vocabulary mainly of nouns and verbs.
• Children under three years. By age three, a child's speech becomes richer in tone, including adjectives and adverbs. Sentences expand to 3 or 4 words, and pronunciation improves.

1. Physiological issues with speech organs. If concerned, consult a specialist. Some physiological differences are identified at birth or during regular pediatric check-ups.
2. Not enough communication from parents. Babies absorb many words at a young age from their parents. If parents don't talk much among themselves or with the baby, the child's vocabulary may be limited.
3. The child is understood without words at home. Many mothers instinctively know what their child wants, even from gestures or sounds. If needs are always anticipated, children may not feel the need to use words, especially after age two.
4. Lack of peer interaction. Observing children on the playground, we see that two-year-olds often communicate in their own language, learning from each other and developing speech through social play.
5. No access to educational shows or cartoons. Some parents believe television is harmful, which is especially common in strict households. However, there are many beneficial programs that teach colors, shapes, objects, and more, helping children learn and giving parents a break. Moderation is key.

1. Talk to your baby before birth. A child can hear voices in the womb and begins recognizing family members' voices before birth. Pregnant mothers should talk, sing, and read aloud to their unborn child.
   
   Important! If you haven’t chosen your baby's name or have changed your mind, avoid referring to your unborn child by name. Use neutral words like “baby” or “son/daughter,” because if you change the name later, it could cause confusion or psychological issues.
2. Communicate with your infant. Once your baby is born, shower them with loving words—your warmth and voice are soothing. However, always use proper speech and avoid speaking in an unnatural, high-pitched tone.
   
   Talk to your baby and narrate what you’re doing: “Now we’ll take off your clothes and change your diaper. Where is your soft and warm tummy?” (kiss their tummy) “Where are your hands?” (hold their hands). Whether feeding, dressing, or walking, always speak to your child. This builds vocabulary even before the child starts to speak.
3. Learning games. When your child starts trying to speak, play learning games. Show them toys or flashcards, read books, and ask questions like, “Where’s the teddy? Where’s the cat? Where’s the dog?” The child will try to say the words and point to the objects. There are many great learning games for children from one year old and up.
4. Educational shows and cartoons. If you’re busy, educational cartoons and programs can be helpful, but limit screen time to 30 minutes per day. Children under two can’t concentrate for long, so even short viewing sessions are enough. Be sure to monitor content for age-appropriateness and avoid shows with violence or negative messages.
5. Fine motor skills development. Scientists have found a direct link between fine motor skills (like hand movements) and speech development. Encourage children aged one to three to play with building blocks, paint, or do crafts.
6. “I don’t understand you…” If your child is older than two and prefers gestures over words, reconsider your approach. Perhaps you anticipate their every need or haven't talked enough. Try this: next time your child gestures, make a surprised face and say, “I don’t understand… tell me, what do you want?” Don’t offer options; insist on them saying what they need. This method can be very effective.
7. Interaction with peers. Children develop speech faster when they socialize with others their own age. Visit friends with young kids, or go to playgrounds and family-friendly places. Children learn social and language skills from each other, even if they use their own versions of words.
8. Consult a psychologist if necessary. If you’ve tried everything and your child is still not speaking, see a specialist to identify any psychological or developmental issues. Sometimes children may have experienced fear or trauma, but usually, everything is normal and your child just isn't ready yet. Most children with normal development start speaking by age five, so don’t be too anxious.