POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy6 months agoA. It's understandable to be concerned if your 2-year-old son isn't yet speaking in two-word phrases, especially if he's very active and exhibiting aggressive behavior like hitting others. Every child develops at their own pace, but there are a few things to consider:
1. Speech Development Delays in Speech: Some children take a bit longer to start speaking in sentences. While most children begin using two-word phrases between 18-24 months, others might develop speech skills a little later. However, if he's not speaking at all or using a few words, it might be helpful to consult a pediatrician or speech therapist to rule out any underlying issues. Encourage Communication: To help encourage speech, engage in activities that require verbal interaction, like reading books together, singing songs, and having simple conversations. Also, try to mimic his gestures and sounds to encourage him to start communicating verbally. 2. Aggressive Behavior (Hitting) Why It Happens: At this age, children may not yet have the vocabulary or emotional regulation to express their feelings, which can lead to frustration and aggressive behavior like hitting, pushing, or biting. It's common in toddlers but should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming a habit. What to Do: Set clear boundaries: Calmly but firmly tell him that hitting is not acceptable. Use simple words like "No hitting," and redirect his energy into something positive, like playing with toys or using words to express himself. Praise positive behavior: When he expresses himself in a more appropriate way (even if it's not with words yet), praise him for trying, such as when he points or uses gestures to communicate. Modeling behavior: Show him the correct ways to express frustration, such as using words, taking deep breaths, or asking for help. Consistent Discipline: Ensure that any behavior, whether positive or negative, is met with consistent responses from both parents and caregivers. 3. Next Steps
If you feel that his speech and behavior are significantly behind for his age or if you're concerned about developmental delays, it’s always a good idea to talk to a pediatrician or early childhood specialist. They can assess his development and may recommend a speech therapist or behavioral strategies to help address these issues.
In the meantime, continue engaging him in activities that promote both speech and social-emotional development, and stay patient as he works through this phase.
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