Most children’s physical development follows a predictable pattern as they grow. Language development and their ability to understand others (receptive language) and talk (expressive language) also follows a predictable pattern.
What Are Speech and Language Milestones?
Speech and language milestones mark significant stages in a typical child’s communication development.
How Are Speech and Language Milestones Used?
Gillette speech and language pathologists use milestones to guide observations about how your child compares to other typical children. We use the information as a guideline to describe your child’s abilities, delays and other developmental characteristics.
What Should a Typical Child Be Able to Do?
The Speech and Language Milestones tables below show what typical children who speak a single language should be able to do at each milestone. Most children don’t master all milestones in a category until they reach the upper age in each range. Remember: Every child is unique and these milestones are one tool speech and language pathologists use to document development.
What Can I Expect if My Child Is Bilingual?
Bilingual children develop language skills as other children do, but there might be differences during some stages of the process. We encourage you to use the language(s) of your home with your child. For more information, go online to: www.asha.org
Speech and Language Milestones
Birth to 3 Months
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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4 to 6 Months
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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7 Months to 1 Year
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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1 to 2 Years
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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2 to 3 Years
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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3 to 4 Years
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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4 to 5 Years
Receptive (Understanding) |
Expressive (Talking) |
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Source: The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Resources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
This ASHA webpage provides details on how your child hears and talks. It also gives the same information in Spanish.
This is an online packet of resources about norms for speech and language development.
1-866-698-4769 (GROW)
Minnesota’s early intervention system — Help Me Grow — includes two programs for eligible children. Eligible children can receive services in their home, school or child care setting. Services are free to children regardless of income or immigrant status.
Questions?
Please contact your pediatrician or Gillette health care provider, or call Gillette at 651-229-3900 and ask for a speech and language pathology clinical educator or a speech and language pathology supervisor.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.