Communication Milestones: Age Ranges

Here are some tips to help families support their child’s speech and language development:

• Talk about what you’re doing, what your child is doing, and what your child sees. Use longer sentences as your child grows older.
• Communicate with your child in the languages that you are most comfortable using.
• Use a lot of different words with your child. Don’t worry about using big words. Children enjoy new and unusual words.
• Listen and respond to your child.
• Help your child listen. Give directions for your child to follow.
• Have your child’s hearing tested if you find yourself repeating a lot or using a loud voice.
• Tell stories to your child a lot. Read to your child as much as you can.
• Ask questions and talk about what happened in the story. Read to your child in the languages they are learning.
• Don’t interrupt your child to correct their speech sounds. It’s okay if your child makes some mistakes with sounds. Say the sounds correctly when you talk.
• Ask questions that need more than a yes or no answer. Encourage your child to ask you questions.
• Set limits for screen time. Use that time for talking, reading, and playing together.
• Don’t wait to get help if you’re concerned. You know your child best. Getting help early can stop later problems with behavior, learning, reading, and social relationships.