Blog - Toddler Talk

10 Toddler Talk Tips for 2024

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 12:34:00 GMT

Happy New Year! (Can you believe it's already here?). I'm excited to kickstart this year by sharing 10 sweet and simple ways to enhance your child's language development at home. I've also included links to other helpful resources, just in case something piques your interest.

Okay! Let's dive into the new year with some exciting ways to support your child's language growth!

10 Fun Ways to Boost Your Toddler's Language Development!

1. Play Together!

Play and language development are closely connected for toddlers. You've probably noticed that as your child's language skills improve, their playtime becomes more imaginative. This happens because both their play and language abilities are growing simultaneously.

One effective way to enhance your child's language skills is through play. Generally, babies and younger children enjoy simpler types of play, like stacking blocks, filling and emptying toys, and pushing things around. The words you use to talk about these activities are more repetitive and straightforward, which matches what they need to learn. You repeat a few important words and play sounds many times.

As their play becomes more advanced, such as when they start pretending or using their imagination, the language you use while playing also becomes more sophisticated. You begin using sentences to discuss and describe what's happening in greater detail. So, when you play together and talk about your activities, you're helping your child improve their language skills.

As the types of play change, you'll have the opportunity to introduce new words to describe the items and actions they use during play. You’re expanding their vocabulary while having fun!

Keep Reading : The Toddler Stages of Play

2. Narrate Your Day

Describing your daily activities in simple words is a great way to introduce your toddler to a wide range of vocabulary. Since we often do the same things every day, this repetition helps them learn the words for things they come across regularly. Plus, you get to teach your child words that matter to them.

Narrating your day means choosing 1-3 words that you'll repeat and teach during a daily activity. You might try using the focused stimulation technique when you change your 1-year-old's diaper or when your 2 year old is brushing his teeth.

In the beginning, you'll likely focus on teaching nouns (names of people, places, and things). But as your child becomes more talkative, you can also introduce action words (verbs) and words that describe things (adjectives and adverbs). It's like turning your daily routines into fun learning experiences!

3. Try Something New

Exploring new places or activities, like visiting a different park or discovering a new library book, is an excellent way to introduce your child to new vocabulary and ideas. The world is full of exciting experiences, so why not dive into them together?

Here are 5 more ideas of (possibly) new things you might try with your little one:

4. Be a Good Listener

Sometimes, being a bit quieter can be a powerful tool. When you give your child room to talk, you might be amazed by them using new words or trying out new ways to show what they want, need, or think. This can come in handy when you know your child is eager to get something and may willing to try a skill that might be hard for them, like saying a new word!

5. Sing Those Tunes!

Singing songs is a delightful way to build language skills. You're not limited to nursery rhymes; consider songs with repetitive lyrics. Create a playlist of your favorites and listen for your child to join in. Early on children may “sing” the song and you’ll notice them following the rhythm of the music even though you can’t understand the words they are saying. Later on they may learn the chorus or a catchy part of the song that gets repeated.

Aside from singing along, you might also play fun games with songs. You can play a song and then pause it unexpectedly and look for your child to make a request for the music to keep going!

6. Find a Playmate

Spending time with a friend or family member can be a an added bonus for your child's language journey.

Interacting with peers encourages communication and exposes your little one to new words and ideas. Kids tend to use simpler words and sentences compared to adults, and sometimes it's easier for your child to pick up words and phrases from their peers. You could think about arranging a playdate with neighbors, cousins, or friends you meet at the park. It's a fun way for them to learn and have a great time with others.

If you don't have the chance to meet kids your child's age, hanging out with older children and adults can also be quite helpful. When we spend time with different people, they often use words we haven't heard before or engage in activities we're not used to. And when we try new things, we come across new words and phrases related to those experiences. It's a cool way to learn from others and discover new words while having fun.

7. Discover Parentese

Parentese, which is also called infant-directed speech, is the special way that parents and caregivers usually talk to babies and toddlers. It includes using a different and exaggerated tone, pitch, and rhythm compared to when we talk to other grown-ups. In parentese, we speak more slowly and use simpler sentences. This slowed-down and exaggerated way of talking can help children learn from us and make it easier for them to mimic words when they hear them. It's can be a helpful language boost!

Keep Learning: The Do’s and Don’ts of Baby Talk

8. Speak Your Languages

f you're part of a household where people speak more than one language, it's a great idea to keep using all those languages at home. Studies have found that using multiple languages at home doesn't lead to speech or language problems. In fact, exposing your child to multiple languages from a young age can make it easier for them to connect with your family and community. Plus, research has indicated that there are cognitive benefits for kids who learn more than one language from the very beginning!

To get a better grasp of how bilingual language development works and what the research says about it, you can check out our blog post.

Keep Reading: Bilingual Language Development - The Facts

9. Think About Understanding

Understanding is the foundation upon which your child's expression (gestures + talking) is built. If you're concerned about your child's language progress, consider focusing on what they can understand. It might provide you with a fresh perspective on their development.

Think about the instructions they can follow or the names of things or people they recognize. They might show their understanding skills by looking at an object or doing something when you ask (like handing you something). As they grow, you'll notice them becoming even better at understanding more complex instructions and answering questions when you ask. It's like watching them unlock new levels of understanding!

10. Have Fun!

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun together. Learning thrives in a joyful environment. Activities that you both enjoy are the best way to support your toddler's early language learning. Every child is unique, so as long as it's safe and your child loves it, any activity can be a fantastic learning opportunity.

That’s a wrap on my 10 Toddler Talk Tips for 2024! I hope you found some inspiration and are as excited as I am about the upcoming year with your little one ��

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

You might also enjoy these recent blog posts:

The content offered on ToddlerTalk.com is for informational purposes only. Toddler Talk is not engaged in rendering professional advice, whether medical or otherwise, to individual users or their children or families. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, speech-language pathologist, or other health professional. By accessing the content on ToddlerTalk.com, you acknowledge and agree that you are accepting responsibility for your child’s health and well-being. In return for providing you with information related to home speech and language practice, you waive any claims that you or your child may have as a result of utilizing the content on ToddlerTalk.com.

Baby Sign Language Resources

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:42:00 GMT

Baby sign language is a fantastic way to bridge the communication gap between parents and their little kids before they can talk. It allows young children to express their needs, feelings, and desires before they have the words, reducing frustration.

In this comprehensive guide, I've gathered a treasure trove of my favorite resources to help parents get started with teaching their little ones the art of baby sign language.

And if you’re looking for some speech therapy tips on how to introduce and use baby signs at home, be sure to check out this blog post !

You'll discover that the best way to teach baby signs is by using them yourself and using them often. I suggest picking 1-3 baby signs to teach at a time. Then, when you say the word that goes with your baby sign, say the word and do the sign every time you use that word during your day.

For example, if you're teaching the baby sign for "diaper," do the sign for diaper several times each time you change your baby's diaper. Over time, they'll start imitating you. And just like how their first words don't always sound exactly the way we say them, your child's baby signs might not look exactly like yours - and that's perfectly fine! We're not aiming for perfection; we simply want to provide your little one with a way to express themselves as their language skills continue to grow.

Alright, let's jump right in and explore my top websites, favorite books, and a couple of popular videos that you can use to teach baby signs.

Websites

Here are my favorite websites that offer approachable information for parents looking to introduce baby sign language.

Best Overall: BabySignLanguage.com

Website: BabySignLanguage.com

At BabySignLanguage.com, you'll find a super cool baby sign language dictionary. It's like a big book of baby signs that you can use to learn hundreds of words for kids. This is a great place to learn the baby sign for just about any word you’d want to teach your little one.

If you scroll down a bit, they even have the top 30 baby signs. That's a great place to start or find the first baby sign to teach your child. Remember, it's best to introduce just a few signs at a time. It's easier for your child to learn when they can focus on a few signs. Plus, it's more doable for parents too!

The website also has videos that show you exactly how to make each sign. If you're a visual learner, you'll love this!

Here are my 10 favorite baby signs to start with on BabySignLanguage.com (in no particular order!):

They've also got a super handy printable PDF with 24 common signs . You can print it out and keep it for easy reference. It's also great to share with family and friends who spend time with your child.

Sweet and Simple: The Bump

Website: The Bump

The Bump has a cool article that teaches 25 key baby signs for your little one. They use really simple pictures and descriptions to teach each sign.

I love that they keep it simple with just 25 signs. It's a great resource for getting started and building up your baby sign vocabulary without feeling overwhelmed.

However, they do include the baby signs "Thank you" and "Your Welcome," which are nice words but not super useful for expressing wants and needs. In my opinion, it’s best to focus on signs your child can use to ask for something or tell you about their basic needs. For example, they could use "please," “want,” or “more” to request or ask for something. And you can teach the baby signs for specific items, like “milk” or “water” so they can tell you exactly what they’re wanting.

Books that I love when teaching baby signs

These books are not just for kids; they're for parents too! It's a fun way to learn and practice baby signs together.
Each book includes pictures that demonstrate how to make the baby sign, and they also feature images that show what the word means (for instance, there's a picture of a baby holding a milk bottle on the page where you learn the baby sign for milk). I really appreciate the use of illustrations because they give your child a relatable context as they learn.

Although the books have many baby signs, I’d recommend learning only a few signs at a time (no more than 5). After reading, use the baby signs in your day-to-day life. Babies and kids learn best when they see how signs can help them get what they want or need in their real life.

Buy on Amazon

YouTube and Baby Sign Language -

If you're into videos, there are some kid-friendly ones that teach baby signs.

So there you have it! With these resources, you're all set to start signing with your baby and unlock a whole new world of communication. Have fun on learning this new skill together.

And here are a few more common questions parent’s ask when teaching baby sign language:

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

10 Favorite Wordless Picture Books for Toddlers

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:19:00 GMT

Have you ever come across a book that tells a story without using a single word? It might sound surprising, but wordless picture books are magical treasures that can work wonders for your toddler's language development journey.

In this blog post, we'll dive into the enchanting world of wordless picture books. We’ll:

Wordless Picture Books - My Go-To List!

If you’re looking to give wordless picture books a try, here are some of my personal favorites for toddlers!

You’ll notice that the my list has many ‘preschool’ books on it. BUT, the beauty of wordless picture books is that you can adjust how you tell the story to meet your child where they’re at developmentally ( more on this below! ). And, I love the idea that these books can grow with your toddler over time and as they get older than can start telling you the story!

Don’t forget to keep reading to learn how you can grow your toddler’s language skills using wordless picture books at home!

This blog post contains Amazon Affiliate links to help support our free speech therapy resources.

Buy on Amazon

The Marvels of Wordless Picture Books

Imagine flipping through the pages of a book and being whisked away into a world of captivating images, where the story unfolds without a single word. These are the enchanting wonders of wordless picture books. These books rely solely on the power of beautifully crafted illustrations to engage, inspire, and ignite your toddler's imagination. While it might seem unconventional, these books are a goldmine of opportunities for language growth and cognitive development.

Setting the Stage for Language Development

Why should you consider introducing wordless picture books to your toddler's reading repertoire? Well, here's the magic – these books invite your little one to become an active participant in storytelling. As you engage together, you'll witness the following incredible benefits:

1. Building Vocabulary: Although wordless, these books are rich in visual vocabulary. As you explore the images together, you'll have ample opportunities to introduce new words, descriptive terms, and action verbs, helping your toddler expand their language horizons.

For toddlers, this is one of the biggest benefits to wordless picture books! You can label and use short phrases, rather than reading sentences, to help them learn language at their level. And, they can label the actions and things they see in the illustrations too!

2. Bonding Time: Sharing wordless picture books provides a precious opportunity for quality bonding. As you explore the visuals together, you're creating a shared experience that strengthens your connection and opens avenues for communication.

3. Igniting Imagination: Without the limitations of words, your toddler's imagination is set free to create stories, characters, and scenarios that are uniquely their own as they get older. These books are like blank canvases waiting to be filled with their creative ideas.

4. Fostering Critical Thinking: Analyzing the illustrations encourages your toddler to think critically, predict outcomes, and identify cause-and-effect relationships. These skills are vital for problem-solving and cognitive development.

5. Nurturing Storytelling Skills: Wordless picture books empower your toddler to weave narratives based on the images they see. This process nurtures their ability to organize thoughts, sequence events, and communicate effectively. You might even use some of these tips for teaching toddlers storytelling as you read wordless picture books!

Tailoring the Experience to Your Toddler's Level

Every toddler is a unique bundle of energy, curiosity, and budding linguistic abilities. Customizing the wordless picture book experience to suit your toddler's level ensures maximum engagement and learning. Here's how you can make the most of this enriching adventure:

If your child uses gestures to communicate:

When you're flipping through the book, point to the pictures and say what you see. If there's a dog, point and say "dog!" Watch closely – your toddler might start pointing too. When they do, say what they're pointing at!

If your child uses single words to communicate:

Just like before, point to those pictures and say what's happening. Use single words to label things, people, and actions; and simple sentences to tell the story of each page. If there's a kid riding a bike, you could say "He’s riding the bike!" And if the illustration is of a boy riding a bike at the park, you can also point out and label the “sidewalk” “helmet” and “squirrel” whose running through the grass in the background.

Also be sure to pause or give your little one a turn to label the things they notice! This way they can help you “read” the story.

If your child talks in phrases and sentences:

Take turns with your little one to describe what's going on. Encourage them to tell you what they see – even if it's just a few words put together. This part is about having fun and chatting back and forth about the pictures.

As you're talking about the pictures, try using some Wh- questions like "Where is the dinosaur hiding?" or "Why’s the bear is sad?" This opens up a whole world of back-and-forth conversations about the story.

Oh, and don't forget about those awesome describing words! Introduce your toddler to cool words like "big," "fast," and "silly." It's a fantastic way to make the story even more exciting at every level!

A few more notes about wordless picture books:

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

Building Back and Forth Interactions

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:42:00 GMT

As parents, caregivers, or educators, we play a significant role in shaping a child's language development. One powerful way to foster language skills is through back-and-forth interactions, often referred to as "turn-taking."

You may be surprised to learn that these back-and-forth interactions start early. When you smile at your baby, and they smile back, that's the foundation of turn-taking. It's also back and forth when you make silly babbling sounds with your baby and when they point to something they want, expecting a response.

These interactive exchanges form the foundation of language learning and communication. These early back-and-forth interactions are all stepping stones toward back-and-forth conversations.

In this blog post, we will explore:

Understanding the Role of Turn-Taking

Back-and-forth interactions involve taking turns in communication, just like a friendly game of catch or a captivating conversation with a friend. These interactions occur when adults respond to a child's cues, and the child responds in return, creating a continuous and engaging exchange. These natural conversational turns provide essential opportunities for children to process language, learn new vocabulary, practice sentence structure, and grasp the rules of social communication.

How Back-and-Forth Interactions Facilitate Language Learning

Responsive Communication

When caregivers respond promptly to a child's coos, babbles, and early attempts at speech by making sounds back, they convey the message that the child's communication is valued and understood. This encourages the child to communicate more and builds their confidence in using language.

Expanding Vocabulary

During back-and-forth exchanges, caregivers can introduce new words and phrases, expanding the child's vocabulary in meaningful contexts. For instance, when a child points to a bird and says "bird," the caregiver can respond with, "Yes, that's a colorful bird! Look, it's flying."

Grammar and Sentence Structure

Through turn-taking, children naturally absorb the patterns of grammar and sentence structure. As they engage in conversations, they hear various sentence types and learn how to construct their sentences correctly.

Social Skills

Back-and-forth interactions teach children the rules of conversation, such as taking turns, listening, and waiting for a response. These essential social skills lay the groundwork for successful communication throughout their lives.

Tips for Enhancing Back-and-Forth Interactions

A few more questions about back-and-forth:

A closing thought…

Back-and-forth interactions are a powerful tool for nurturing a child's language development. Caregivers (aka you) provide a supportive and enriching environment for children to learn and explore language by engaging in daily responsive and interactive conversations! These exchanges help children grasp the mechanics of language and strengthen their social skills, self-confidence, and skills in back-and-forth conversations.

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

Toddler Talk Q+A: Your Guide to 2-Year-Old Development

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:46:00 GMT

I’m very excited to share a Q&A session on speech and language development for 2-year-olds!

As a speech therapist with a passion for helping parents navigate their toddlers' communication journey, I've gathered the most frequently asked questions from moms and dads just like you.

In this blog post, we'll address common concerns related to:

I'll provide insightful answers and practical solutions to support your child's speech and language skills. Plus, I’ve linked TONS of free resources and activities for you throughout!

Toddler Talk 2-Year-Old Q+A

Watch on YouTube or read along!

1. When should toddlers start putting words together?

The milestone is 2-word phrases by 2 years old .

By the time your little one is 24 months, we'd expect them to combine words. Before working on word combinations, ensure your child has a vocabulary of at least 50-100 words.

Here’s a resource with speech therapy tips and activities for teaching your little one to put 2 words together when they’re ready - Putting 2 Words Together Guide

2. My toddler is having trouble with the P sound. He says "sassy" instead of "paci" for pacifier. Is this a speech issue?

This probably has nothing to do with the “P” sound, assuming that your son can pronounce the “P” sounds in other words like Pop! or up without a problem.

When toddlers make rule based errors in their speech, speech therapists say that they are using a phonological process. Phonological processes are used by toddlers to make words easier to say as they are learning.

What you’re noticing is likely a phonological process called assimilation . This happens when one consonant sound becomes the same as a different consonant sound in the same word - in other words a child uses the same consonant sound twice. Other examples of assimilation are saying “mime” for mine and “bauble” for bottle.

Assimilation is a common speech error for toddlers and should resolve by age 3.

Check out my guide on toddler speech errors for more information.

3. Is it normal for a 2-year-old to say only the beginning sounds of words? For example, they say “Pho” for phone and “Bea” for beach.

Yep! Like we talked about in Question 2 this is a common phonological process or toddler speech error. It’s called “final consonant deletion” because they leave the final consonant sound off when they pronounce a word.

Other examples of final consonant deletion would be saying:

Final consonant deletion usually goes away on it’s own by age 3.

I’ve put together tips and activities you can utilize at home to help your child learn to use final consonant sounds - Check it out here!

4. Is it normal for a 2-year-old to replace "f" sounds with "s" sounds?

Yes, this can happen. Speech errors are expected at this age as toddlers are still developing their pronunciation skills. Each child may have different errors that make words easier for them to say based on their current abilities. For example, some children may have an easier time pronouncing the “S” sound versus the “F” sound, or vice versa.

For more information, refer to my speech sounds by age post . You’ll learn the milestones for different speech sounds, so you can listen for the sounds most kids have learned by your child’s age.

If you want to take a closer look at your child’s speech, I put together an at home “test” you can use to see which sounds your child has learned and which sounds you ought to work on next. Find our speech sounds “test” here .

5. Should I worry if my 2-year-old can't pronounce their name yet?

It's generally not a concern if your 2-year-old struggles to pronounce their name.

Many names contain hard to pronounce sounds or have more sounds in general. For example, names like Christopher and Lauren are harder to pronounce than names such as Tom or Kate .

If your child’s name is hard to pronounce, they may simplify their name on their own or use a nickname while they’re still learning. If they haven’t tried saying their name yet, you might create a nickname for them with less sounds and/or easier to pronounce sounds to see if they’ll copy that. As their pronunciation skills grow, you can teach them to say their full name.

If your little one can’t say their name when they are about 3 years old (the pronunciation of their name doesn’t need to be 100% correct if it contains later developing sounds , but their name should be recognizable when they say it!), then it might be a good idea to discuss with your pediatrician and maybe a speech evaluation would be appropriate.

Wanting to help your child say their name? - Check out these tips and activities

6. My 2-year-old isn't saying any words and has been diagnosed with glue ear. What should I do?

Glue ear refers to chronic ear infections with thick or sticky fluid buildup in the middle ear, which affects a child’s hearing.

Clearing the ear infection is crucial, as impaired hearing can make it much harder for children to develop their speech skills. You’ll want to consult your child’s pediatrician and an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor. Your doctors will help determine the best plan to clear up your little one’s ear infection.

You’ll also want to consider a speech and language evaluation. Speech therapy can help boost a child’s speech and language skills. Keep in mind, your child isn’t expected to make a ton of progress in their verbal communication development until they are able to hear what other people are saying more clearly (this happens when the ear infection is treated by a doctor and the thick liquid is cleared from the middle ear).

Teaching baby sign language can support communication during the time your child’s ear infection is resolving.

Here’s a guide to teaching baby sign language to build your child’s communication .

And my step-by-step guide for finding a pediatric speech therapist in your area .

* Friendly parent reminder: Please consult your child’s doctor, glue ear cannot be treated at home. *

7. Should I be worried if my toddler stutters or gets stuck on words?

Stuttering is a speech disorder that affects the smoothness and fluidity of speech. It can manifest in various ways, including sound or word repetitions (e.g., W W W W Water), prolongations (e.g., IIIIIIIII want an apple), and blocks (when a person gets stuck and can't produce a sound or word). In toddlers, stuttering is fairly common, and most children who experience it during this stage of development will naturally outgrow it without intervention. This type of stuttering is known as developmental stuttering .

If your child has started stuttering, try these tips:

However, if your toddler's stutter persists beyond certain indicators, it may be considered a true stutter that requires the support of a speech therapist:

For more detailed information, continue learning about stuttering in toddlers here .

8. My 3-year-old speaks well, but sometimes it's hard to understand her. Should I be worried?

Speech intelligibility refers to how easily others understand someone's speech. Speech intelligibility is measured as a percentage. 0% speech would mean you can’t understand anything a person says. Whereas 100% speech intelligibility would mean you can understand everything someone is saying.

By 3 years old, about 75% of a child's speech should be intelligible. It's normal for children to be less clear when tired, excited, or unwell.

If you have concerns or feel your child is harder to understand, talk to your pediatrician about scheduling a speech and language evaluation. A speech therapist can listen to your child talk and create a plan to help them improve their speech intelligibility if needed.

Check out our speech intelligibility guide for further information.

Thank you for following along for our Q&A session on 2-year-old speech and language development. I hope the answers and resources provided have reassured you and empowered you to support your child's communication skills.

Remember, every child develops at their own pace, but early intervention can make a significant difference ��

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

You may also enjoy these recent blog posts:

The content offered on ToddlerTalk.com is for informational purposes only. Toddler Talk is not engaged in rendering professional advice, whether medical or otherwise, to individual users or their children or families. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, speech language pathologist, or other health professional. By accessing the content on ToddlerTalk.com, you acknowledge and agree that you are accepting the responsibility for your child’s health and well-being. In return for providing you with information related to home speech and language practice, you waive any claims that you or your child may have as a result of utilizing the content on ToddlerTalk.com.

Answering Common Toddler Speech and Language Questions - 1-Year-Old Q+A

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 11:52:00 GMT

Welcome to Toddler Talk! Today I’m going to provide valuable insights and answers to the most frequently asked questions about toddler speech and language development from this week’s Instagram Q+A ( @toddler_talk_ ). I collected numerous questions from moms (and dads) just like you and picked the most common questions to include here. My goal is to help you understand and support your toddler's communication journey. So, let's dive right in and find answers to some of the burning questions you may have!

You can also skip ahead to any of the following questions using these links:

The same questions & answers are available in video format!

Is my child a late talker?

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 11:59:00 GMT

Is your toddler taking their time to find their words?

Don't worry, they might just be a late talker! In this blog post, we'll explore these questions:

Who is a “late talker”?

Late talkers are children who start speaking later than their peers. Typically, they are between 18 and 30 months old and have a limited vocabulary. They may find it challenging to combine words into phrases or sentences. And, they may have difficulties understanding language.

The term " late language emergence " is commonly used by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and speech therapists to describe children who are late talkers. This term is used because these children may experience delays not only in speaking but also in their understanding and receptive language skills. The term "late talker" can be confusing, but it's important to know that understanding skills and speaking skills are closely linked and typically develop together.

How common are late talkers?

Late talkers are actually quite common. Around 13% of children at 24 months old show signs of late language emergence. So if you're concerned about your child's language development, know that you're not alone. Many parents have experienced similar situations, and there is support available to help you and your little one along the way.

Do I have a late talker?

Are you concerned that your child might be a late talker? You're not alone! Many parents find themselves worrying about their child's communication development. In fact, in a recent poll I conducted on Instagram with over 500 parents, more than 80% expressed concerns about their child's communication skills. It's natural to compare your little one to their peers or siblings and feel a bit worried when you notice differences in their abilities.

To help you determine if your child might be a late talker, here are some specific signs to look out for:

If you notice these signs in your child, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional or a speech-language pathologist. Remember, being a late talker doesn't necessarily indicate a long-term language disorder. Some children catch up to their peers without any intervention, while others may benefit from early intervention services, such as speech-language therapy, to support their language development.

Milestones - A guide for identifying late talking toddlers

It's essential to keep in mind that there's a wide range of what's considered typical development for children at any age. To gain a clearer understanding of your child's progress, it can be helpful to reference milestones or benchmark skills for each age group. By doing so, you can determine whether your child is on track or may require additional attention in a particular area.

Here are some age-specific benchmarks that can assist you in identifying late talking:

At 1 8 months , look for children to:

At 24 months , look for children to:

At 30 months , look for children to:

Remember, these milestones are general guidelines , and every child develops at their own pace. If you have concerns about your child's language development, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a speech-language pathologist. They can provide a more accurate assessment and recommend appropriate interventions if necessary.

I think my child’s a late talker… Help!

If you suspect that your child may be a late talker, it's essential to understand that it doesn't necessarily indicate a long-term language disorder. Many children do catch up to their peers without any intervention, while others may benefit from early intervention services like speech-language therapy to support their language development.

Now, you might be wondering, "Will my child catch up on their own?" The answer is, it varies. Research indicates that more than half of late talkers do catch up on their own. However, it's impossible to predict which group your child will fall into—those who catch up naturally or those who may require some additional support for expressive language development.

To determine the best course of action, consult with a speech-language pathologist. They can assess your child's language skills and provide expert guidance. If necessary, they'll recommend strategies and activities to facilitate language development.

As a parent, you play a vital role in supporting your child's communication skills. Engage in interactive activities like reading, singing, and talking with your child to create a language-rich environment. Incorporate play and everyday interactions into learning experiences.

Late Talker Recommendations:

I recommend two things to parents who have concerns about late talking:

1. Start practicing at home!

Many early intervention speech therapy strategies can be implemented by parents. Spend 15-30 minutes a day during an activity you already do to make a difference.

Here are three proven strategies to support late talkers at home during your family's favorite activities (click the links for activities and more information on each strategy!)

2. Schedule a speech and language evaluation.

You may be wondering, “Is speech therapy really necessary? Won’t they just catch up on their own? ”

The truth is, it varies from child to child. While some children do catch up on their own, others benefit from extra help in acquiring language skills. That's why I strongly recommend scheduling an evaluation for your child. During this appointment, you'll gain valuable insights into your child's strengths and areas that may require support. Moreover, you'll receive specific techniques to assist your child's language development throughout the evaluation process. Following the evaluation, speech therapy may or may not be recommended, depending on your child’s individual needs.

Request a referral from your pediatrician or contact your state's early intervention program (in the US). Even if your child catches up through at-home practice, it's wise to have an appointment booked in case extra support is needed down the road. Planning in advance provides peace of mind if your progress at home doesn’t go as you’ve planned.

Here are 2 great resources for speech & language evaluation:

Remember, every child is unique, and their language journey unfolds at their own pace. Seeking professional advice and actively participating in your child's language development will ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.

How to support a late talker at home - more ways!

1. Play Activity Guides - I’ve put together guides to growing your child’s talking skills using some of the most popular toddler toys. Check out the suggested activities for your child’s current level using:

2. First Words - resources to help your little one say their first words

3. Growing Vocabulary - these are my favorite strategies, tips, and activities for helping your child learn to say more words

4. Putting Words Together - support your child in combining words when talking with these speech therapy tips, activities, and strategies

5. Kickstart - If you're looking for extra reassurance and personalized support for your late-talking toddler, I'm here to help!

I've been providing one-on-one guidance to families, and it has been a wonderful experience. Families have appreciated the individualized support, and I've enjoyed connecting with them on a deeper level. If you're interested in personalized recommendations and support, I invite you to consider my new Kickstart Program . This program is designed to provide tailored strategies to enhance your child's language development and empower you as a parent. Feel free to reach out to me to learn more about the Kickstart Program and how it can benefit you and your child. I'm here to support you every step of the way on this journey.

A few more common questions about late talkers:

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

References:

The content offered on ToddlerTalk.com is for informational purposes only. Toddler Talk is not engaged in rendering professional advice, whether medical or otherwise, to individual users or their children or families. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, speech language pathologist, or other health professional. By accessing the content on ToddlerTalk.com, you acknowledge and agree that you are accepting the responsibility for your child’s health and well-being. In return for providing you with information related to home speech and language practice, you waive any claims that you or your child may have as a result of utilizing the content on ToddlerTalk.com.

Early Sentences - an exciting milestone in language development

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:49:00 GMT

It's an exciting milestone when toddlers start talking in sentences!

This development opens up a whole new world of communication for them, allowing them to express their thoughts, ideas, imaginations, and feelings in more detailed and exciting ways. They will begin asking questions, making jokes, and telling stories, which is amazing to witness as a parent.

If you're a parent of a toddler, you might be curious about the building blocks that lead to this important language milestone.

My name is Stephanie, and as a pediatric speech therapist with seven years of experience, I'm here to guide you through the process of talking in sentences. In this post, we'll delve into:

Let's embark on this journey of language development together and support our little ones as they become confident sentence speakers!

When do kids start talking in sentences?

Kids usually start talking in sentences between the ages of 2- to 3- years old.

It's worth noting that the timing of when kids start talking in sentences can differ based on factors like their vocabulary size and diversity. The key to using sentences lies in their understanding and usage of verbs—remember, every sentence includes a verb. When children have a wider range of action words in their vocabulary, it enhances their ability to express themselves through sentences.

What comes before talking in sentences?

Language development is cumulative, each new skill builds upon a skill your child has already learned. This principle definitely holds true for talking in sentences.

If you're wondering whether your child is ready to start using sentences, there are four essential skills to consider. Take a look at these skills and assess if your child has already mastered them. If you notice that any of these skills are still developing or missing, it's crucial to dedicate time to practice and reinforce them before moving on to sentences. This approach will help establish a strong foundation for your child's language development.

To assist you in teaching and strengthening these skills, we provide free lessons that you can access by clicking on each skill.

Talking in Sentences

Early sentences are formed with a subject and at least a verb. Generally, children will begin using early sentences by the age of 30 months. It's important to note that early sentences differ from two-word combinations because word combinations lack both a subject and a verb.

Take a look at this list comparing word combinations and early sentences:

Word Combinations → Early Sentence

As you can see, early sentences can be as short as two words, such as "Baby eat" or "I play." They don't need to adhere to all the grammar rules of adult sentences. Just like children adjust the pronunciation of challenging words , they may shorten sentences to a few key words while they are learning. With practice, sentences will gradually become longer and more complex.

Here are some more examples of early sentences toddlers may say:

Keep in mind! As children start using early sentences, they will still continue to produce word combinations alongside them. It's important to remember that they are expanding and adding to their existing language skills to express themselves more effectively. They are building upon what they already know, and both word combinations and early sentences play a role in their language development.

Here are 3 things you can do to encourage your child to use early sentences:

1. Turn your child’s word combinations into sentences

When your child says a word combination, repeat it back to them and expand it into an early sentence. This provides them with examples they can imitate to create their own sentences. For instance:

2. Repeating early sentences in various ways

Repeating a word or word combination as an early sentence helps with your child's learning. Say the sentence in different ways to provide them with more examples. Repetition is key for toddlers.

For example, if your child says "eat apple," you can say: "Mommy is eating an apple. Mommy is eating an apple because she is hungry."

You can also expand upon an early sentence and add context to complete it as an adult would say.

3. Use your tone and volume to emphasize key words

When speaking to your child, use correct grammar and emphasize key words. This helps them understand how sentences should be formed in the long run. Although your child may not repeat the entire sentence with all its grammatical elements, it's important to model the sentence correctly. Use your tone and volume to highlight the keywords you want your child to notice or repeat. For example, say "Mommy's eating her dinner" rather than "Mommy eat."

To learn all the Do’s and Don’ts of Baby Talk from a speech therapist, refer to this post .

I have also created a comprehensive blog post about teaching early sentences, and we offer a free activity guide with three simple and enjoyable activities you can do at home to teach early sentences.

Click this link to go to the Teaching Early Sentences lesson and activities

After early sentences

After your child has become comfortable with early sentences, it's time to help them progress to the next level. One effective tip for this is expanding on their phrases or sentences. By repeating what your child says and gradually adding more words or expressing it in different ways, you naturally assist them in learning how to combine words and form longer sentences.

In addition to expanding sentences, it's important for toddlers to develop grammar skills. Here are two key grammar skills for toddlers to learn once they start using early sentences:

Saying many sentences together

Once your child is confidently speaking in longer and more elaborate sentences, and has acquired some age-appropriate grammar skills, the next exciting milestone in their language development is the ability to tell short stories. This involves combining multiple sentences to convey a message or describe an event.

Typically, around the age of 3, children start to demonstrate the ability to share what happened by stringing together sentences to create a narrative or story. To support your child in this important skill, I have compiled a set of helpful tips and engaging activities designed specifically to teach toddlers how to tell stories effectively.

By clicking the link , you can access these valuable resources and embark on an exciting journey of nurturing your child's storytelling abilities .

A few more common questions about talking in sentences:

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

The content offered on ToddlerTalk.com is for informational purposes only. Toddler Talk is not engaged in rendering professional advice, whether medical or otherwise, to individual users or their children or families. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, speech language pathologist, or other health professional. By accessing the content on ToddlerTalk.com, you acknowledge and agree that you are accepting the responsibility for your child’s health and well-being. In return for providing you with information related to home speech and language practice, you waive any claims that you or your child may have as a result of utilizing the content on ToddlerTalk.com.

Does tongue-tie affect speech?

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:51:00 GMT

If you've been wondering about the relationship between tongue-ties and speech delay, you've come to the right place. As a speech therapist, I'm here to help you understand the potential impact of tongue-tie on speech development and what you can do to help your child if you suspect a speech delay.

Before getting started, I have a very important reminder!

Speech errors are common among toddlers and preschoolers. Research has revealed that many children who are referred for speech concerns associated with tongue-tie actually have age-appropriate speech errors, which may not be directly linked to tongue-tie.

You can learn more about when children learn to pronounce speech sounds and age appropriate toddler speech errors on the blog.

In this post, we'll explore the question, "Do tongue-ties cause speech delay?" We'll also dive into:

What is tongue tie?

Let's start by understanding what a tongue-tie is before we discuss its impact on speech. A tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia , occurs when the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (called the frenulum ) is shorter or tighter than usual. This can limit the movement of the tongue.

Did you know?

Interestingly, we also have similar bands of tissue called labial frenulum that connect our upper and lower lips to our gum line. You can feel it by running your tongue along the outside of your teeth! Sometimes these labial frenulum can also be tight and require correction.

What does a tongue-tie look like?

The way tongue-tie looks can vary depending on how severe it is. In some cases, the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (frenulum) may reach all the way to the tip of the tongue, making it harder for babies to move their tongues and causing a heart-shaped or notched appearance when they stick their tongues out. The frenulum may also seem tight or tense, limiting the tongue's ability to move up or from side to side. Sometimes, tongue-tie can make it challenging for babies to lift their tongues to the roof of their mouths or stick them out past their lips.

However, it's important to remember that the way tongue-tie looks alone may not always mean intervention is necessary. To assess how tongue-tie affects function and determine the best course of action, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional such as a pediatrician, dentist, or speech therapist.

How common are tongue-ties?

Tongue-ties are quite common and can occur in approximately 4-10% of the population (Salt et al., 2020).

It's important to know that there is often a genetic component to tongue-ties. This means that if you have a child with a tongue-tie, there is a higher chance that their siblings may also have a tongue-tie. It’s also important to remember that not all tongue-ties cause significant issues or require intervention, so a different plan may be recommended for each of your children.

Do tongue-ties always affect speech development?

Now, let's address the main question: Do tongue-ties cause speech delay?

While tongue-ties can contribute to speech difficulties, it's important to understand that they are not always the cause. Some children with tongue-ties experience normal speech development, while others may have difficulties pronouncing some sounds.
Tongue-ties can potentially affect speech by hindering tongue movements necessary for clear articulation of sounds. These difficulties may manifest in a variety of ways, such as difficulty with certain sounds (e.g., "d," "t," or "s") or less clear pronunciation (referred to as speech intelligibility ) which makes it harder for other people to understand what a child is saying. However, it's crucial to remember that every child's speech development is unique, and not all speech delays can be attributed to tongue-ties.

Tongue ties do not impact language development

Having a tongue-tie can make it difficult for your child to say certain sounds, but it won't have an impact on their overall language development ( read more about the differences between speech and language here ). To explain it simply, speech involves what happens in the mouth, and a tongue-tie can affect speech. However, language development takes place in the brain and is not influenced by a tongue-tie.

So, although your child may struggle with certain sounds, it's essential to remember that their ability to comprehend and learn words will not be affected.

Considering a tongue tie release

If you suspect that your child's speech is being impacted by a tongue-tie, it's crucial to seek guidance from medical professionals who specialize in tongue-ties. I would recommend consulting with several professionals from the following list:

As you consider a possible tongue-tie diagnosis and correction plan, it's likely that you will be talking to multiple professionals on this list. It's important to note that they may not all provide the same recommendations. Trust your instincts as a parent and consider how your child's tongue-tie is affecting their daily life. Tongue-ties are often corrected in infancy when babies experience issues such as reflux, gas due to excessive air intake while nursing, difficulty latching, and painful nursing for both you and your baby.

While tongue-tie correction is often associated with addressing speech delays, there are other significant reasons to consider this intervention:

Breastfeeding Challenges: Tongue-ties can make breastfeeding challenging for both the baby and the mother. Correcting the tongue-tie can improve latch, feeding efficiency, and enhance the overall breastfeeding experience.

Dental Health: Tongue-ties may contribute to dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and misalignment of teeth. Correcting the tongue-tie can promote better oral hygiene and help prevent potential long-term dental issues.

Overall Oral Function: Tongue-ties can impact various aspects of oral function, including swallowing, chewing, and oral hygiene. By addressing the tongue-tie, we can support healthy oral development and function throughout childhood and into adulthood.

Does releasing a tongue-tie improve speech?

The impact of tongue-ties and their release on speech has been the subject of ongoing research. Let's take a look at some recent findings:

It's important to note that while research is a lengthy process, it's still a good idea to consult with medical professionals who can assess your child's individual situation. Relying on online information or anecdotes from friends may not provide the necessary context.

Remember, each child is unique, and their treatment should be tailored to their specific needs. Consulting with medical professionals and considering their recommendations can help guide you in making informed decisions about your child's tongue-tie and its potential impact on speech.

Let’s talk about what happens during a tongue-tie release

Let's talk briefly about what happens during a tongue-tie release procedure, keeping in mind that I'm not qualified to perform them (but I realize it really helps to understand the process as you may feel anxious or worried for your little one).

Healthcare professionals specializing in oral and maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology (ENT), or dentistry are the ones who perform the procedure. There are two primary methods: frenotomy and frenuloplasty. Frenotomy is the most common and least invasive method, typically done on infants or young children using sterile scissors or specialized lasers to release the tight frenulum. Frenuloplasty is a more involved procedure performed on older children, adolescents, or adults, involving a small incision to release the frenulum. The actual procedure is brief, but the appointment may take longer. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate method and ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

During the procedure, healthcare professionals may use surgical scissors or lasers, such as diode lasers or CO2 lasers, to release the tight or short frenulum. Surgical scissors provide precise incisions, while lasers offer controlled tissue removal with reduced bleeding. After the procedure, follow-up stretches are often recommended to maintain optimal tongue mobility and prevent reattachment of the frenulum. While follow-up stretches are commonly advised, healthcare professionals may provide variations in recommendations based on the extent of the release and individual circumstances. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide specific guidance on post-procedure care, including the use of stretches or alternative approaches, ensuring the best outcome for your child.

Speech therapy following tongue-tie release

After correcting a tongue-tie, speech therapy may be recommended to help older children develop optimal speech and clear articulation. Although tongue-tie correction improves tongue mobility, it takes time for the child to readjust and learn proper tongue movements for speech.

A speech therapist will closely work with the child to address any remaining speech challenges or habits developed due to the tongue-tie. Through targeted exercises and techniques, the speech therapist will assist the child in strengthening and coordinating their tongue, lips, and jaw muscles to enhance speech clarity and articulation.

Speech therapy sessions may involve enjoyable activities, games, and repetitive speech exercises to gradually improve pronunciation skills. Regular communication between the speech therapist, child, and parents ensures that therapy goals are aligned and progress is effectively monitored.

With the guidance of a speech therapist, children who have undergone tongue-tie correction can optimize their speech abilities and achieve clearer speech.

Here are some other common questions parents ask about tongue ties:

Written By: Stephanie Hatleli, MS CCC-SLP

References:

The content offered on ToddlerTalk.com is for informational purposes only. Toddler Talk is not engaged in rendering professional advice, whether medical or otherwise, to individual users or their children or families. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, speech language pathologist, or other health professional. By accessing the content on ToddlerTalk.com, you acknowledge and agree that you are accepting the responsibility for your child’s health and well-being. In return for providing you with information related to home speech and language practice, you waive any claims that you or your child may have as a result of utilizing the content on ToddlerTalk.com.

Blog - Toddler Talk

10 Toddler Talk Tips for 2024

10 Fun Ways to Boost Your Toddler's Language Development!

1. Play Together!

2. Narrate Your Day

3. Try Something New

4. Be a Good Listener

5. Sing Those Tunes!

6. Find a Playmate

7. Discover Parentese

8. Speak Your Languages

9. Think About Understanding

10. Have Fun!

You might also enjoy these recent blog posts:

Baby Sign Language Resources

And if you’re looking for some speech therapy tips on how to introduce and use baby signs at home, be sure to check out this blog post !

Websites

Best Overall: BabySignLanguage.com

Sweet and Simple: The Bump

Books that I love when teaching baby signs

YouTube and Baby Sign Language -

10 Favorite Wordless Picture Books for Toddlers

Wordless Picture Books - My Go-To List!

Don’t forget to keep reading to learn how you can grow your toddler’s language skills using wordless picture books at home!

The Marvels of Wordless Picture Books

Setting the Stage for Language Development

Tailoring the Experience to Your Toddler's Level

If your child uses gestures to communicate:

If your child uses single words to communicate:

If your child talks in phrases and sentences:

Oh, and don't forget about those awesome describing words! Introduce your toddler to cool words like "big," "fast," and "silly." It's a fantastic way to make the story even more exciting at every level!

A few more notes about wordless picture books:

Building Back and Forth Interactions

Understanding the Role of Turn-Taking

How Back-and-Forth Interactions Facilitate Language Learning

Responsive Communication

Expanding Vocabulary

Grammar and Sentence Structure

Social Skills

Tips for Enhancing Back-and-Forth Interactions

A few more questions about back-and-forth:

A closing thought…

Toddler Talk Q+A: Your Guide to 2-Year-Old Development

Toddler Talk 2-Year-Old Q+A

1. When should toddlers start putting words together?

2. My toddler is having trouble with the P sound. He says "sassy" instead of "paci" for pacifier. Is this a speech issue?

3. Is it normal for a 2-year-old to say only the beginning sounds of words? For example, they say “Pho” for phone and “Bea” for beach.

4. Is it normal for a 2-year-old to replace "f" sounds with "s" sounds?

5. Should I worry if my 2-year-old can't pronounce their name yet?

6. My 2-year-old isn't saying any words and has been diagnosed with glue ear. What should I do?

7. Should I be worried if my toddler stutters or gets stuck on words?

8. My 3-year-old speaks well, but sometimes it's hard to understand her. Should I be worried?

You may also enjoy these recent blog posts:

Answering Common Toddler Speech and Language Questions - 1-Year-Old Q+A

You can also skip ahead to any of the following questions using these links:

Top 11 One-Year-Old Parent Questions

1. Does a word need to be said daily to count as a word?

2. How many words should my 14-month-old have?

3. My 18-month-old says some words backwards. Is that normal?

4. My son is 18 months old and just recently started saying more than 5 words, but he no longer says "Mama." Is this normal?

5. Is it normal for a 19-month-old to say three-word sentences?

6. How can I encourage my 20-month-old to start putting words together?

7. At what point do toddlers start using pronouns? My 20-month-old hasn't started.

8. My 21-month-old says everything as a question like "Do you want down?" or "Is it tasty?" Is this normal?

9. My 21-month-old pronounces "S" with a lisp. Will this vanish with age?

10. My 21-month-old often pronounces a new word properly at first, but then it's like they get lazy and the pronunciation changes. Is this normal?

11. My 23-month-old says "T" instead of "C/K" sounds. For example, they say "blat" instead of "black." Is this normal?

You might also enjoy these recent blog posts:

Is my child a late talker?

Is your toddler taking their time to find their words?

Who is a “late talker”?

How common are late talkers?

Do I have a late talker?

Milestones - A guide for identifying late talking toddlers

I think my child’s a late talker… Help!

Late Talker Recommendations:

How to support a late talker at home - more ways!

A few more common questions about late talkers:

Early Sentences - an exciting milestone in language development

When do kids start talking in sentences?