COMMUNICATION DEVELOPMENT
Every child is unique and develops at their own pace.
These guidelines show the typical age by which communication skills are achieved.

7-12 months

  • Recognizes own name
  • Recognizes words for common items
  • Gestures (arms up to be held; shakes head "no")
  • Says 1-2 words

1-2 years

  • Follows simple commands: "sit down"
  • Points to a few body parts when asked
  • 18 months, says ~50 words
  • 2 years: Says ~200-300 words
  • Combines 2 words:"More milk"; "Go bye-bye?"

2-3 years

  • Follows 2-step directions
  • Uses 2-4 word sentences
  • 3 years: Says ~1,000 words
  • 3 years: Pronounces ​p, b, m, d, n, h, t, k, g, w, ng, f, y sounds
  • Understood by a stranger over half the time

3-4 years

  • Knows a few common colors & shapes
  • Answers simple who, what, where questions
  • Uses pronouns: I, you, me, we, she, he, they
  • Tells about his/her day using ~4 sentences at a time
  • Uses many 4+ word sentences
  • Understood by stranger most of the time
  • 4 years: Pronounces l, j, ch, s, v, sh, z sounds

4-5 years

  • Follows 3-step directions
  • Understands sequence words: ​first, next, last
  • Understands time words: yesterday, today, tomorrow​
  • 5 years: Pronounces r, zh (measure), voiced th (them) sounds
  Communication delays left untreated in early childhood increase the risk of future academic and learning problems.                      
If you have concerns about your child, we can help.