When Words Take Flight: Understanding Speech Milestones by Age (Typical vs. Delayed)







Introduction

Speech and language development are key components of a child’s growth. They allow children to express themselves, build relationships, and explore the world. While every child progresses at their own pace, understanding what’s typical—and when there might be a delay—helps caregivers provide timely support.


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Typical Speech Milestones by Age

0 – 6 Months

Typical Development:

Reacts to sounds by startling or turning toward them

Coos and gurgles

Varies cries to express different needs


Possible Delays:

Doesn’t react to loud sounds

Rare or no vocalization



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6 – 12 Months

Typical Development:

Begins to babble (“ba-ba,” “da-da”)

Responds to name

Uses gestures like waving or reaching


Possible Delays:

No babbling by 9 months

Doesn’t respond to name or sounds



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12 – 18 Months

Typical Development:

Says 1–5 simple words (e.g., “mama,” “ball”)

Understands basic directions

Points to objects they want


Possible Delays:

No spoken words by 15 months

Doesn’t use gestures or point



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18 – 24 Months

Typical Development:

Vocabulary grows to 10–50 words

Combines two words (“more juice”)

Follows simple instructions


Possible Delays:

Fewer than 10 words by age 2

Doesn’t combine words



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2 – 3 Years

Typical Development:

Uses 200+ words

Forms short sentences (“I want toy”)

Speech is about 50–75% understandable to strangers


Possible Delays:

Difficulty combining words

Hard to understand even for close family



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3 – 4 Years

Typical Development:

Speaks in full sentences

Answers simple questions

Speech is 75–100% understandable to strangers


Possible Delays:

Struggles to form complete thoughts

Trouble staying on topic or being understood



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4 – 5 Years

Typical Development:

Can tell short stories

Uses most grammar correctly

Follows conversations easily


Possible Delays:

Uses incorrect grammar often

Trouble following conversations

Strangers find speech hard to understand



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Common Causes of Speech Delays

Speech and language delays may occur due to:

Hearing loss

Oral-motor issues (difficulty using lips, tongue, or jaw)

Developmental conditions (such as autism spectrum disorder or Down syndrome)

Limited verbal interaction at home



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When to Seek Professional Help

If your child:

Isn’t meeting expected milestones

Shows signs of frustration with communication

Stops making progress


…consider consulting:

A pediatrician

A speech-language pathologist (SLP)

An early childhood development specialist


Early intervention is key and can make a big difference.


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Conclusion

Language is a bridge between thought and connection. While every child follows a unique timeline, knowing what to expect—and what might signal a delay—can empower families to act early. With the right support, every child can find their voice and let their words take flight.

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