Every child develops at their own pace. Still, some signs suggest a speech and language assessment could help. Early support often makes the biggest difference.

What to look for, by age

These are general guides, not strict deadlines.

  • Around 12 months: most children babble and use gestures such as pointing or waving.
  • Around 18 months: most children use several single words.
  • Around 2 years: most children start joining two words, such as "more milk".
  • Around 3 years: familiar adults can understand most of what the child says.

Other signs worth noticing

  • Your child rarely responds to their name or to simple instructions.
  • Your child finds it hard to make their needs known and gets very frustrated.
  • Your child shows little interest in back-and-forth play or conversation.
  • People outside the family struggle to understand your child.
Act promptly if your child loses words or skills they used to have, at any age.

What an assessment involves

A speech and language therapist looks at how your child understands, speaks and interacts. You will get clear findings and practical next steps.

Simple ways to help at home

  • Get down to your child's level and follow their interests.
  • Name what your child is looking at or doing, using short phrases.
  • Pause and give your child time to respond.
  • Read together every day, even for a few minutes.