Do you have a little one or two-year-old at home? This age is an amazing time when their speech and language develop very quickly. Just like a small plant grows quickly when watered and fertilized, their vocabulary and the way they communicate with others improve day by day, in an amazing way. So, today, let's talk about how these little ones' language skills – that is, learning new words, saying what they want, and understanding what others say – happen, and how you, as a mother or father, can help them on this important journey.
How do little ones talk to us? How words bloom in their little worlds
At this age, especially around two years old, toddlers' language skills are developing rapidly. They are becoming more adept at understanding what we say, and they are also beginning to express their needs through words and sometimes gestures. Imagine the joy you feel when you tell your little one to "fetch the ball" and he understands and does it! They also love to give us little commands at this age.
Their little journey to learn words
- Usually around 15 months , babies try to say one or two more words in addition to the words "mama" and "dada."
- By 18 months , which is about a year and a half, they can say about three or four words.
- By the time they are two years old, most toddlers know a lot of words and have begun to say short sentences ("I want milk," "Give me the ball").
It's important to note that even before they start speaking , babies understand a lot of what we say. When you say something simple, like "Bring that toy to mommy," for example, they should be able to understand it and do it. Also, when you say the name of a familiar animal or something you see often (e.g., "Where's the dog?"), they should be able to look at it or point to it.
Gestures are another language for them.
Just like words, gestures are a big part of their communication at this age. Starting with simple things like blowing a kiss, reaching for something, or nodding your head to say "yes," they gradually develop these gestures. These are important for them to imitate what others do, express their feelings, and play.
Don't worry about the words not being clear!
Even though your little one's vocabulary is growing quickly, we may not be able to clearly understand every word they say. That's very normal. Think about it, the little muscles in their mouths aren't used to pronouncing these new words properly yet. It's like when we first learn a new language, we get confused.Even at about two years old, we can often only understand half of what a little one says. But don't worry. The important thing is to understand what they are saying and repeat the words back to them correctly. For example, your little one might say 'boye' instead of 'bole'. Then, without getting angry, you can say the correct word with a smile, "Oh... son, do you want a ball ? Here is a beautiful ball ."
What can we do as parents to develop this speaking ability?
Our help in this language development of the little ones is very valuable. Let's see what simple things we can do.
1. Let's call everything by its proper name, and reduce "baby talk"
Your little one is listening to every word you say, and he remembers them incredibly quickly. So, instead of using " baby words," use the correct names for people, places, and things as much as possible. Speak slowly, clearly, and simply when you speak. Don't overwhelm him with too many words.
2. Respond to your baby's gestures and connect them with words.
As we've talked about before, gestures are a very important part of language development. When your little one gestures, respond to them. Engage them in the conversation. Make a connection between their gesture and the words that go with it.
Imagine your baby reaching for the fridge and making a 'goooo' sound. What does that mean? It's like saying, 'I want something to drink.' Then you can ask, "Does your baby want water? Or milk?" Then you can say, "Oh, do you want milk? Okay, let's get some milk." This way you can connect their gestures with words.
3. Songs, rhymes, games – these are their school.
Sing songs, rhymes, and play games with your little one. They love gesture games like "I have five fingers on my hand...". Also,
- Body parts (Where is the ear? Where is the nose?)
- What's in the pictures?
- The toys and belongings lying around
- People at home (Where is mom? Where is dad?)
Encourage them to ask, look for, and point out things like this. Ask questions like "Show me the ball," "Where is your ear?"
4. Colorful picture books – a gateway to the world of words
Buy books with big, colorful pictures and read them together with your little one. Help them turn the pages of the book themselves, it's a lot of fun for them. Point to the pictures in the book and ask, "What is this? Who is this?" Get their attention by saying things like, "Look at this big elephant!"
When should we see a doctor? Places to be a little careful
Most children pass these important language development milestones at this time. However, sometimes there may be slight delays. However, if you have any doubts or questions about the following, it is best to talk to a doctor.
- Even at 15 months: If he doesn't try to say one or two words other than "mama" and "dada." If he doesn't look at something he sees often (e.g., a milk bottle, a toy) when you say its name.
- At 18 months (one and a half years): If you still don't say more than three words. If you don't understand and follow simple commands (e.g., "sit in the chair") without gestures.
- Even at 2 years old: If you can't understand something in a book, point to at least two body parts (e.g. eyes, mouth) when asked, or say at least two words together ("I want milk", "Baby, go").
Some parents worry that a child may have autism when they start talking a little late. Doctors usually look for this at every check-up, especially at the 18-month and 2-year check-ups, where they do screening tests for autism . So, if you have any doubts, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor or nurse. They will help you out.
Take-Home Message
During this amazing time when your 1-2 year old child's speech and language skills are developing, the most valuable things you can do are:
- Be patient: Not all children are the same. Some speak early, some a little later. That's normal.
- Talk to your child a lot: Tell them simply about what you are doing and what you are seeing. Ask questions.
- Listen carefully to what they say: Try to understand what they are trying to say.
- Read books together, sing songs, play games: these are the things that make their words beautiful.
- Teach the correct words with love: If they say a word incorrectly, teach the correct word with love.
- If in doubt, ask a doctor: Talk to a doctor about anything, even the smallest, without holding it in.
Your love, encouragement, and patience are the biggest boost to your little one's beautiful language journey!
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 Should a child between 1 and 2 years old be able to point at things?
Definitely! A child between the ages of 1 and 2 should be able to point to a toy, a cup of water, or their mother with their index finger. This is a big step in their communication.
💬 Can a child of this age understand simple instructions from a mother (where to get the ball)?
Yes, even though they have difficulty speaking words at this time, they can understand simple things that their mother says. They should respond to simple things like 'come here', 'give me the ball', 'where is daddy'.
💬 Is it a sign of autism if a child spends a lot of time playing alone but doesn't talk?
If your child is not talking at all, has poor eye contact, and doesn't look back when their name is called, it could be a sign of autism or a hearing impairment. Therefore, it's important to see a doctor.
` Children's language development, 1-2 year olds, speaking ability, communication, parenting advice, word learning, Autism screening
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