First words and toddler talk: what's typical from 12 to 36 months
Toddlers understand far more than they can say. Between one and three, most go from a few words to short sentences.
Around 12 months
Many babies say their first word around their first birthday, often "mama," "dada" or a word for a favorite person or thing. They also understand simple words and follow gestures, like waving bye-bye or lifting arms up.
By 15 months
The CDC's milestones include trying to say one or two words besides "mama" or "dada," looking at a familiar object when you name it, and following directions given with both a gesture and words.
By 18 months
- Tries to say three or more words besides "mama" or "dada."
- Follows one-step directions without gestures, like "Give it to me."
- Points to show you something interesting.
By 24 months
- Points to things in a book when you ask, like "Where is the bear?"
- Says at least two words together, like "more milk."
- Points to at least two body parts when you ask.
Vocabulary often grows quickly between 18 and 24 months.
By 30 months and 3 years
- At 30 months, many children say about 50 words and use two or more words together with an action word, like "doggie run."
- By 3 years, most talk with you in conversation using at least two back-and-forth exchanges, and ask "who," "what," "where" or "why" questions.
What we mention
Ways to encourage talking
- Narrate your day: "I'm putting on your red sock."
- Read together every day. Point to pictures and name them. Let your toddler turn pages.
- Wait. Pause and give your child time to respond.
- Expand on their words. If your child says "car," you say "Yes, a big blue car."
- Sing songs and rhymes with actions.
- Limit screen time. The AAP recommends avoiding digital media other than video chatting for children younger than 18 to 24 months. Real conversations matter most.
Bilingual families
Children can learn two or more languages at once. They may mix languages or seem to have fewer words in each at first, but their total vocabulary is usually on track. Speak the language you're most comfortable with.
When to ask for an evaluation
Talk with your pediatrician if your child:
- Isn't babbling or using gestures like pointing or waving by 12 months.
- Doesn't say single words by about 16 to 18 months.
- Isn't putting two words together by 24 months.
- Loses words or skills they once had, at any age.
You can also contact your state's early intervention program directly for a free evaluation for children under three. You don't need a referral.
