Speech & Language Milestones by Age

Speech & Language Milestones by Age

By 12 Months

Most children should:• Respond to their name• Use gestures like pointing or waving• Babble with sounds like ba, da, ma• Understand simple words like “no” or “bye-bye”

If your child is very quiet, rarely babbles, or doesn’t respond to sounds, this is a good time to ask for a speech screening.

By 18–24 Months

Most toddlers should:• Say at least 20–50 words• Use words to ask for things• Follow simple directions• Try to imitate words

If your toddler mostly points, pulls you to things, or becomes frustrated instead of using words, they may be experiencing a speech delay—and early support makes a huge difference.

By 2–3 Years

Most children:• Combine two or more words (“more juice,” “go outside”)• Understand simple questions• Use words more than gestures• Are understood by familiar adults most of the time

If your child isn’t combining words or is very hard to understand, a speech evaluation can help clarify what’s going on.

By 3–4 Years

Children typically:• Speak in sentences• Answer simple questions• Are understood by most people• Use grammar like plurals and pronouns

If your child avoids talking, struggles to express ideas, or is frequently misunderstood, it’s worth reaching out.

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

You may want to consult a pediatric speech-language pathologist if your child:• Has fewer words than expected for their age• Becomes frustrated or tantrums because they can’t communicate• Doesn’t follow directions• Doesn’t respond to their name or spoken language• Has difficulty being understood

Trust your instincts. You know your child best.

Why Early Speech Therapy Matters

Speech and language are the foundation for:• Learning• Social skills• Behavior• Emotional development

When children struggle to communicate, it affects everything — from play to friendships to school readiness. The earlier we support communication, the easier it is for the brain to build those skills.

Early intervention is not about labeling a child — it’s about giving them access to their voice.

What Happens During a Speech Evaluation?

At Magnolia Speech Therapy, we take a family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming approach. That means:• We get to know your child, not just test them• We talk with you about your concerns• We look at strengths as well as challenges• We create a plan that fits your child’s real life

Our goal is to support communication in a way that feels respectful, empowering, and meaningful.

You Don’t Have to Wait and Wonder

If you’re searching online for:“Is my child’s speech delayed?”“Speech therapy near me”“Toddler not talking”

You’re already doing the right thing by asking questions.

Early support can change everything.

Schedule a Free Phone Consultation

Magnolia Speech Therapy proudly serves families across Middle Tennessee, including Smyrna, Murfreesboro, La Vergne, and surrounding communities.

📞 Let’s talk about your child’s communication — no pressure, just clarity and support.