#asktheexpert Hi, my 21 month baby is not speaking yet. He says only mama dada and some two letter words. Please suggest on this

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It is understandable to be concerned about your 21-month-old's speech development, especially when they are not speaking as much as you might expect. However, each child develops at their own pace, and speech milestones can vary widely. Here are a few points to consider and suggestions:

1. Normal Developmental Range:

Many children start speaking more words between 18 and 24 months, but some may take a bit longer to start speaking clearly or using a wider vocabulary.

At 21 months, saying only "mama" and "dada" along with a couple of other words can still be within the normal range, as some toddlers may be delayed in speech but develop quickly once they start.

2. Encouraging Speech Development:

Talk to Your Baby: Engage in constant conversation with your baby, even if they cannot respond fully. Describe your actions, surroundings, and feelings to help them associate words with objects and actions.

Read to Them: Reading aloud to your baby can encourage language development. Choose simple, colorful books with basic words and repeat them to help your baby connect the words to their meanings.

Expand on What They Say: If your baby says "mama," you can respond by saying, "Yes, mama is here." This can encourage them to try using more words.

3. Limit Screen Time:

Too much screen time (TV, tablets, etc.) can reduce the amount of verbal interaction your baby has with you, which is essential for speech development. Try to limit passive screen time and engage more in face-to-face conversations.

4. Encourage Playtime and Interaction:

Social interactions with other children, as well as adults, help with speech development. Arrange playdates or allow them to interact with family members and friends.

Play pretend games, which can encourage your child to imitate and use words more.

5. Check for Hearing Issues:

Hearing problems can sometimes delay speech development. If you suspect your child may not be hearing clearly, it's worth consulting your pediatrician to rule out any hearing issues.

6. Consult a Specialist if Needed:

If you're concerned about your child's speech or if they are showing signs of other developmental delays (like difficulty understanding simple instructions or other communication challenges), it may be helpful to consult a speech-language pathologist or pediatrician. Early intervention can be very helpful in addressing speech delays.

In Conclusion:

At 21 months, your baby is still within the typical range of language development. Keep encouraging verbal interaction, reading, and play, and monitor their progress. If you feel concerned about any other signs, don't hesitate to seek professional advice.