As a parent it feels impossible to know if your child is hitting their language milestone–after all–you understand their funny nicknames for things and their non-verbal cues just fine!
Here’s a simple checklist of spontaneous words and word combinations.
A late talker is usually defined as an 18-month-old that is not spontaneously saying more than 18-20 words. Even anything less than 50 words at 18 months of age would suggest the child is at risk of being a late talker. This is because in typically developing children many children are saying over 200 words already! (Source: Speech Net)
If your child isn’t saying at least 50 of these words spontaneously, working with a speech-language pathologist is suggested. Doing so will protect your child from falling further behind their peers in their language development.
Recent studies show that late talking toddlers have less success on measures of school readiness and the ability to cope with peer interactions (avoiding biting episodes, being bullied, social confidence in making and keeping friends) when early intervention is not sought. (Source: Speech Net)
To see other signs that speech therapy might be needed click here or check out this cute list of ways to encourage spontaneous language at home. If you have concerns or you are unsure, give us a call at 208-359-9570 to schedule a free screening with a speech-language pathologist who can tell you if your child is hitting their speech and language milestones.
