#asktheexpert my son is now 2 years old but he doesn’t talk properly.. only say “mamma”, “papa “, “ didi “… is this normal? Should I start speech therapy?

Question

Accepted Answer

It’s not uncommon for children to develop speech at different rates, but by the age of two, most children are starting to say a wider range of words and combining them into simple phrases. Since your son is currently only saying a few words like "Mama," "Papa," and "Didi," it may be worth keeping an eye on his speech and language development.

### What to Expect at Two Years Old:
By this age, many children typically:
- Say at least 50 words.
- Begin to combine two words to form simple phrases, like “more milk” or “want ball.”
- Understand simple instructions, like "come here" or "give me the toy."
- Engage in basic conversations using gestures and sounds.

However, every child develops at their own pace, and some may take longer to start speaking clearly.

### Signs to Watch For:
You may want to consider speech therapy if your child:
- Speaks fewer than 20 words by 24 months.
- Does not combine two words to make short phrases.
- Struggles to understand simple instructions.
- Is not using gestures like pointing, waving, or nodding in combination with speech.
- Shows little interest in communicating or making eye contact.

### What You Can Do at Home:
1. **Encourage Conversations**: Engage your child in conversations, even if he responds with gestures or sounds. Speak slowly and clearly to him, and repeat words often.
2. **Read to Him**: Reading books is a great way to help children develop language skills. Choose books with colorful pictures and simple, repetitive text.
3. **Label Everything**: Label objects, people, and actions throughout the day. For example, say “This is your cup,” or “Let’s play with the ball.”
4. **Avoid Pressure**: Let your child develop speech at his own pace, but gently encourage communication. Make talking fun without pushing too hard.

### When to Consider Speech Therapy:
If your child’s speech remains very limited by the age of two or beyond, it may be helpful to consult a pediatrician or a speech-language therapist. Early intervention can make a big difference and help address any underlying issues, whether they are related to speech, hearing, or developmental milestones.

A pediatrician may also recommend a hearing test to rule out any hearing problems, as these can affect speech development.

It’s always a good idea to seek professional advice if you’re concerned, as early support can be very beneficial.