How can I tell if my child's speech development is on track?

“Is my child’s speech development on track? How soon should they be speaking? What signs can I look out for?” These are some of the most common questions any parent could have when they’re trying to ensure their child’s growth is on track and hitting milestones. While speech development is a high variable and personal process, here are some general indicators that can help you check your child’s progress:

By 12 months, your child should be babbling, using a few simple words like "mama" or "dada," and responding to their name. They may also use gestures, such as pointing or waving, to communicate.

By 18 months, your child should have a vocabulary of about 10-20 words and be able to follow simple commands like "come here." They might start combining two words, like when they ask for basic things or request more food.

By 2 years, your child should have a vocabulary of at least 50 words and start forming two-to-three-word sentences. They should also be able to identify common objects and people by name, like their grandparents’ names or their favourite toys.

By 3 years, your child should be using three-to-four-word sentences and have a much larger vocabulary of everyday things they use. They should be able to answer simple questions, understand prepositions (like in, on, under), and follow two-step instructions.

If you feel like your child is not meeting these milestones for their age, do not hesitate to consult a speech therapist. Early intervention is crucial for addressing speech and language delays and can significantly improve outcomes.

Remember, each child develops at their own pace, but staying informed about typical speech milestones and seeking professional advice when needed can ensure your child receives the support they need to thrive.