Speech & Language Milestones (18–24 Months): A Parent Playbook 🌱
If you’re wondering whether your 18–24 month old is “on track,” you’re not alone. At Therapist to you, we talk with parents every day who just want clear, calm guidance. Below you’ll find what many toddlers do around this age window (every child’s timeline is unique), how to gently support progress at home, and when to check in with a speech-language pathologist (SLP).
What many toddlers do between 18–24 months ✨
Think ranges, not exact deadlines:
Words & combos: from a handful of words toward ~50 words by ~24 months; starts using 2-word phrases (“more milk,” “Daddy go”).
Understanding: follows simple directions (“get shoes,” “sit down”), finds common objects, points to body parts.
Imitation & play: copies animal sounds, sound effects (“uh-oh!”), and simple gestures; enjoys pretend play (feeding a doll, driving a car).
Sharing attention: points to show you things, looks where you look, brings you items to label (“truck!”).
Bilingual homes: exposure to two languages may spread vocabulary across both—this is normal. Total words across both languages matter more than words in one language.
At-home activities that really help (5–10 minutes each) 🏠
No worksheets needed—just moments woven into your day.
Narrate the day
Label what your child sees/does: “Blue cup,” “Big ball,” “You’re climbing!”
Why it works: floods your child with meaningful words tied to real experiences.Choices that invite words
“Do you want apple or banana?” Hold each item near your face; pause to give space for a response.
Why it works: builds power words and confidence.The “one-up” technique
If your child says “ball,” you model “big ball” or “want ball.”
Why it works: gently stretches from single words to 2-word phrases.Book routines (same 2–3 books)
Point, wait, and let your child fill in a sound/word they know.
Why it works: repetition + predictability = success.Sound play
Exaggerate fun sounds—“beep-beep,” “choo-choo,” “mmm!”—and celebrate any imitation.
Why it works: easy entry into vocalizing without pressure.Follow-the-leader gestures
Clap, wave, blow kisses, tap nose.
Why it works: gestures are stepping stones to words.
Pro tip: the pause is magic. Model once, then pause 3–5 seconds. Tiny waits invite big tries. ⏸️
When to check in with an SLP (simple screen) 🩺
Trust your gut and consider a speech-language evaluation if, by around 24 months, you notice several of the following:
Fewer than 10–20 spontaneous words (total across languages)
Rarely imitates sounds or words
Limited use of gestures or pointing to show/tell
Difficulty understanding simple directions without gestures
Frustration during communication that leads to frequent meltdowns
Hearing concerns (frequent ear infections, inconsistent responses to sound)
Hearing drives speech. If you’re unsure, ask your pediatrician about a hearing screen alongside an SLP evaluation.
What an evaluation looks like (no scary tests) 🧸
Play-based visit (in-home, in-center, or in-school): we observe how your child communicates naturally.
Strengths & next steps: you’ll leave with clear goals and 2–3 easy strategies to use that same week.
Family coaching: we show you how to embed language practice into routines you already do.
Care that meets your child where they learn best
In-home: calm environment; easy to practice during meals, bath time, and play.
In-center (Melbourne & West Palm Beach): structured space and materials for focused practice.
In-school: coordination with teachers/IEP so gains show up in class.
We serve Melbourne (West Melbourne, Viera, Palm Bay) and West Palm Beach, with Okeechobee in-home and in-school services.
Real-life wins (what parents tell us) 💬
“Once we started the ‘one-up’ trick, he went from ‘car’ to ‘red car’ in a week.”
“The pause felt awkward at first, but it worked—she started filling in the last word of her favorite book!”
FAQs 💛
Is my toddler “late” if they’re not using 2-word phrases yet?
Not automatically. Look at the whole picture—gestures, imitation, understanding. If you’re seeing gaps across several areas, an SLP screen can help.We speak two languages at home. Is that a problem?
No. Bilingual exposure does not cause delays. We’ll count words across both languages and support both.Do you offer speech therapy at home?
Yes—in-home, in-center (Melbourne & West Palm Beach), and in-school options are available. We’ll recommend a setting—or blend—that fits your child.Is therapy covered by insurance/Medicaid?
Many plans cover pediatric speech therapy. We’ll verify your benefits and explain any costs before you begin.
You’re doing a great job. If this stage feels noisy, messy, and a little uncertain—that’s totally normal. We’ll meet your child with patience, play, and a plan. 💛
