Early Language Development

Early language development is a gradual process that begins right from the moment a child is born! Before your child ever learns to say words or make speech sounds, he is taking in language from his surroundings, from the people who care for him, from the books that are read to him, and the events he observes!

Around age one, we expect a typically-developing child to say their first word. At 18 months, we are expecting a child to begin combining words.

There are so many concepts to learn and explore, and helping our children do this through play is so rewarding and beneficial for your child!

Of course, there are some circumstances where language development may look a bit different from what typically occurs. If a child has a disability that affects their ability to communicate, an intellectual disability, or even lack of exposure to language, he or she may be in school but still not using and understanding basic language concepts.

However, even with older children, we can still use play, books, and other strategies to help our children use and understand language! Click the pictures below for information and handouts about different ways you can help your child with language development.