Language is the foundation for communication, learning, and social connection. It includes both understanding others (receptive language) and expressing yourself (expressive language). The first three years of life are the most critical period for language development when the brain is optimally wired to absorb language. Strong language skills are essential for reading, writing, academic success, and building relationships throughout life.
Language is different from speech. Speech is the physical act of producing sounds and words; language is the system of rules and meaning that underlies communication. A child can have clear speech but still have language difficulties, or language delays with relatively clear speech production.
The first three years of life represent the most intensive period for acquiring language skills. During this time, the brain is developing rapidly and is optimally prepared to absorb language input. While children can and do continue learning language throughout life, these early years offer a unique window of opportunity.
Language develops in predictable stages, but there's a wide range of what's considered 'normal.' Understanding these stages helps parents know what to expect and when to be concerned.
Language has two major components. Receptive language (comprehension) develops before expressive language (production)—children understand far more than they can say, especially in early development.
When language doesn't develop as expected, different types of difficulties may be identified. Some children have more trouble with understanding, others with expression, and many have difficulties in both areas.
Vocabulary is the building block of language. Children need to learn thousands of words to become competent communicators and readers. Research shows that children need to encounter a word many times in different contexts before it becomes part of their vocabulary.
As children develop, their sentences grow longer and more complex. You can support this development through modeling and specific strategies.
Following directions is an important receptive language skill that develops gradually. Children start by following simple one-step directions and progress to longer, more complex instructions.
Research shows that back-and-forth conversation (conversational turns) is one of the most powerful predictors of language development—even more important than the total number of words a child hears. These serve-and-return exchanges build brain connections and language skills.
Reading together is one of the most powerful ways to build language skills. Books expose children to vocabulary, sentence structures, and concepts they wouldn't encounter in everyday conversation.
Every daily routine is a language-learning opportunity. Narrating routines, having conversations during activities, and connecting language to meaningful experiences builds strong language foundations.
Research shows that back-and-forth conversation ('conversational turns') is one of the best predictors of language development—even more important than the total number of words a child hears. Engage in real conversations and follow your child's lead.
Instead of correcting grammar errors directly, expand on what your child says with the correct form: Child says 'Him runned fast!' You say 'Yes, he ran so fast!' This models correct language without discouraging communication.
Talk about what you're doing, what your child is doing, and what you see throughout the day. This self-talk and parallel talk provides rich language input during natural activities.
Background TV reduces parent-child conversation, even when not directly watched. Prioritize face-to-face interaction and conversation over screen time, especially in the early years.
Understanding typical speech and language development helps you know what to expect and when to seek help. Every child develops at their own pace—milestones represent ranges, not exact deadlines. Use these benchmarks as a guide, and remember that variation is normal. However, if you have concerns, trust your instincts and seek an evaluation.
Learn moreLate language emergence (LLE), commonly called 'late talking,' affects 10-20% of two-year-olds. While some late talkers eventually catch up on their own ('late bloomers'), recent research shows that natural catch-up rates are lower than previously thought—only about 6-19% fully catch up without intervention. Early evaluation and intervention provide the best outcomes and should not be delayed.
Learn moreSpeech and language skills form the foundation for reading and writing. Children with speech or language difficulties are at higher risk for literacy problems—but early support can make a significant difference. Phonological awareness (the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words) is one of the strongest predictors of reading success and is a key area where speech-language pathologists can help.
Learn moreBilingualism does NOT cause speech or language delays—this is one of the most persistent myths in speech-language development. Children's brains are remarkably capable of learning multiple languages simultaneously, and maintaining the home language provides significant cognitive, cultural, academic, and family benefits. If you're raising a bilingual or multilingual child, keep using your home language!
Learn moreOur team is here to help. Book a free consultation to discuss your concerns and learn how we can support you or your child.