Late talking
18 months – 4 years · 4 min read
Grandparents, neighbours and even doctors may say “he’ll talk when he’s ready” and some late talkers do catch up. But others don’t, and it is impossible to know which from the outside. Checking costs little; waiting too long can mean missing the years when help works best.
What parents often notice
- By 18 months: fewer than about 10 words, and not pointing to show you things.
- By 2 years: not putting two words together (“more milk”, “papa gone”).
- Understanding seems behind too, not following simple requests without gestures.
- Any loss of words they used to say.
What helps at home
- Talk through your day together in short, simple sentences.
- Offer choices you hold up: “Banana or apple?” and wait for any attempt.
- Copy their sounds and gestures, then add a word.
- Keep the TV and phone off in the background during play and meals.
When to talk to a professional
- Any of the signs above, a loss of words, or a gut feeling that won’t go away. Ask for a hearing test as well.
Who can help
- Speech and language therapist
- Audiologist
- Developmental paediatrician
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org) Language delay
- ASHA; Speech and language development
Last updated 28 September 2026 · General information, not medical advice. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for a qualified professional.