As with all other forms of development, there are basic guidelines and averages that most toddlers follow when it comes to child language development. It is perfectly normally, though, for a toddler to lag behind in some area of development, or maybe all parts of development, by a number of weeks. Maybe your toddler is just a late bloomer.
If your toddler was born prematurely, then it is important to observe their development according to their corrected age. That is, if your 12-month-old child was born two months early, then you should compare her development to what is normal for a 10-month-old.
However, if your toddler is more than several weeks behind in the development schedule, then it is a good idea to have a talk with her pediatrician. Here is a general guide of when you should be concerned about your toddler�s delayed speech and language development:
By 12 months�
– Is unable to convey his need for help
– Doesn�t practice a few consonant sounds
– Isn�t using common gestures like waving
By 15 months�
– Isn�t saying “mama” or “dada”
– Is unable to say any words
– Doesn�t understand or respond to simple words like “no”
By 18 months�
– Vocabulary is less than six words
– Is unable to understand much of what is said to him
By 24 Months�
– Isn�t mimicking words or actions of those around her
– Is unable to form short phrases
– Doesn�t know what common household objects are for
– Is unable to find a named picture in a book
– Says less than 20 words
By 30 Months�
– Names fewer than three body parts
– Members of household have troubles understanding toddler
By 36 Months�
– Isn�t asking questions
– People outside the home have a hard time understanding toddler
– Can�t name common objects around the home
– Says less than 25 words
Learn how to encourage your toddler�s language development and find out if you should be worried about your child�s language skills.
If your toddler seems to have delayed language development, discuss the issue with their pediatrician. Language problems can often be remedied in a relatively short time, either through your pediatrician�s recommendations or by taking your toddler to a speech pathologist.
You don’t have to deal with your special needs child all on your own. Talk with parents of other special needs children in our forum.