Look Mumma, I’m Learning to Talk!
Hi Mumma, During the period of 18 to 24 months, you will observe that I am making significant progress in the development of toddler language and in the recognition of phrases. Some of the fascinating ways in which my language development will progress throughout this period are as follows:
Speaking More Words
Development: Between the ages of 15 and 18 months, I might use 10 to 15 words. This could grow a lot by 24 to 30 months, often to more than 50 words. This is a big step forward in a toddler's language
Understanding and Following Two-Part Directions
I can follow simple two-part commands like "Give me the ball and then your shoe" by 18 to 24 months, focused on movements that go together. This shows growth in how young children talk to each other.
Beginning to Use Two-Word Phrases
I might start putting words together around 20 to 24 months, like "more water" or "no sleep." It will be 24 to 30 months before I use three-word phrases. This is a very important step forward in speech milestones.
Imitating Environmental Sounds
When I'm about 21 months old, I might start imitating sounds I hear, like animals or cars, and use these sounds when I play. This is part of my work to improve the clarity of my words.
Becoming More Intelligible
As I get closer to 2 years old, you'll understand about 65% of what I say, even if other people don't understand everything. This shows that my language is getting clearer.
Using Jargon
I'll talk in a way that seems like gibberish, but I'm actually working on my speech patterns and flow. This is part of my toddler's language growth.
Starting to Use My First Name
Between 18 and 24 months, I'll start to recognize and use my own name in conversations. This is a big step toward knowing who I am and how I fit into my language-rich environment.
Singing Words from Songs
Between the ages of 18 and 23 months, I might sing parts of songs. Between the ages of 23 and 27 months, I'll start singing whole lines.
Encouraging My Language Development
Continuous Interaction: Talk, read, sing, and have talks with me all the time. I learn from all the language around me, even if I don't speak it much.
Create a Language-Rich Environment: Surround me with lots of words and sounds through books, music, and everyday talks.
Monitoring My Progress
Watch for Milestones: Pay attention to my language goals and how I'm doing with my speech and words.
Consult Professionals: If you're worried about how I sound when I talk, you can talk to my doctor. They can show you the way and check to see if I need more help.
These months are very important for me to improve my language skills. These eight ways I'm learning to talk can help me build good communication skills for the future if you understand and support them.