Speech delay can feel overwhelming, especially when your child isn’t talking like others their age. As parents, we eagerly look forward to hearing that first “mama” or “papa.” It’s more than just a word; it’s a milestone, a cherished moment.
But what if it doesn’t happen as expected?
If your child isn’t talking like others their age, you may wonder:
“Should I be worried?”
“Is this just a phase?”
“Should I wait, or seek help?”
Let’s be clear—speech delay is not your fault, and you’re not alone. This blog outlines when to be concerned and how to take action with care and confidence.
How Speech Delay Mirrors Walking Milestones
Think of speech development as similar to learning to walk.
Some toddlers run by 10 months, while others take their first steps closer to 16 months. There’s a normal range.
But if a child hasn’t walked by 18 months, most parents check in with a doctor.
Speech follows the same pattern—there’s a typical range along with important red flags to be aware of.
Speech Delay Developmental Timeline by Age
Birth to 12 Months: Sound Comes Before Words
By the end of the first year, babies should be:
- Babbling (like “ba-ba” or “ma-ma”)
- Using gestures such as waving or pointing
- Responding to their name
- Making eye contact
If your baby isn’t babbling or using gestures by 12 months.
12 to 18 Months: Words Start to Appear
Between 1 and 1.5 years, toddlers usually:
- Say 10 to 20 simple words, such as “mama,” “ball,” or “no”
- Imitate sounds or words
- Understand basic instructions like “come here”
If they speak fewer than 10 words or don’t imitate sounds by 18 months.
18 to 24 Months: Words Combine Into Phrases
At this stage, you’ll generally hear:
- A vocabulary of about 50 words
- Two-word phrases like “more milk” or “mama come”
- A clear intent to communicate through pointing, asking, or showing
If your child isn’t saying 50 words or combining phrases by age 2, don’t wait—get a speech evaluation.
2.5 to 3 Years: Speech Becomes Functional
By this age, your child should:
- Use 2 to 3-word sentences
- Be understood by familiar listeners
- Ask questions like “What’s that?”
- Follow two-step instructions, such as “Get your shoes and sit down”
If your child mainly uses one-word speech at 3 years or is hard to understand.
Why Early Action for Speech Delay Matters
Children’s brains are like soft clay—most adaptable before age 5.
Early support gives your child a stronger chance at clear communication later in life.
Just as you would fix your child’s glasses if they can’t see, you shouldn’t wait if they can’t express themselves clearly.
Speech Delay Red Flags at Any Age
If you notice any of the following, seek help immediately—regardless of age:
- No eye contact or social smile
- No response to their name by 12 months
- Loss of previously learned words or skills
- Limited interest in people or play
- Not pointing or showing you things
Speech Delay: What to Do and When to Act
If you notice any of the signs above, begin with an evaluation by an expert.
At Neuronurture Kids, our team of speech-language therapists and developmental pediatricians offers online, play-based therapy for children under age 6.
We support children from your home with routines, games, and coaching tailored to your child’s needs.
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You’re Not Late—You’re Right on TimeA speech delay doesn’t mean something is broken. It simply means your child needs a bit more support—and you’re here, ready to provide it.
And that?
That’s everything.