Language Milestones 2–3 Years: What's Happening and How to Give It a Boost
Between 2 and 3, short phrases grow into real sentences, and the “why?” questions start. Here’s what’s typical for this stage, how clear your toddler’s speech should be, and simple ways to help it along.
Language Milestones 18–24 Months: What's Happening and How to Give It a Boost
Between 18 and 24 months, single words start turning into real sentences; most toddlers go from a handful of clear words to dozens, then start putting them together. Here's what's typical for this stage and how to build on what's already working.
Language Milestones 12–18 Months: What's Happening and How to Give It a Boost
Between 12 and 18 months, your toddler's brain is doing some of its most intense language work — pointing, babbling, and slowly turning sounds into real words. Here's what's typical for this age and simple, no-flashcards-needed ways to help it along.
Your Baby at 12 Months: What's Happening with Language and How to Give It a Boost
Twelve months is a milestone parents circle on the calendar, and it usually comes with the same question: "Should my baby be talking by now?" The honest answer is almost never a simple yes or no — what's actually happening at this age is less about words coming out and more about the foundation being built underneath. Here's what's really going on with your baby's language, and a few no-extra-effort ways to give it a boost.
The Most Important Words to Teach Your Child (SLPs Call Them 'Core Words')
Most of what we say every day comes down to a small set of words — and the same is true for children. Core words like more, go, want, and stop work in almost any situation, making them the most powerful place to start building language. Here's what they are and how to use them.