A late talker is a toddler whose spoken language is behind that of children the same age while other areas of development are on track. A common definition is using fewer than about 50 words, or not combining two words, at age 2.
Key takeaways
- Many late talkers catch up, but it is hard to predict who will.
- Understanding language and using gestures are good signs.
- A hearing test is part of checking any speech delay.
What you can do
- Talk about what your child is doing in short, simple sentences.
- Wait and give your child time to speak.
- Read together every day and name pictures.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your child has no words by 15-18 months, fewer than about 50 words or no two-word phrases by 2 years, does not seem to understand simple instructions, or loses words. Do not wait to see if they catch up.
