#asktheexperts My baby is 18 months old and he can't say anything except maa and papa.I am little worried about him.Please suggest?

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Accepted Answer

It's completely understandable to be concerned when your baby is not speaking much, but please remember that every child develops at their own pace. At 18 months old, some children may have a limited vocabulary, and this is still within the range of normal. However, it's always good to keep an eye on your child's development to ensure everything is on track.

Speech Development at 18 Months:

By 18 months, many toddlers can say several words besides "mama" and "papa" (like "ball," "dog," or "bye"), but others may still be in the early stages of language development.

Typically, 18 months is a time when children begin to understand simple words and commands, but their ability to speak clearly is still developing.

Possible Reasons for Delayed Speech:

1. Individual Developmental Pace: Some children are just naturally slower to speak, even though they understand a lot.

2. Hearing Issues: If your child is not hearing properly, it can affect their speech development. Make sure there are no issues with your baby's hearing.

3. Lack of Exposure to Language: Children learn language by hearing it. The more you speak with your child, read to them, and engage in interactive play, the more they will learn.

4. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): While speech delays can sometimes be a sign of autism, this would usually be accompanied by other signs, such as limited social interaction or lack of eye contact. If you're concerned about autism, it’s best to consult a pediatrician.

What You Can Do:

1. Talk to Your Child: Keep talking to your baby throughout the day, narrating your actions. Engage them in conversation, even if they can't reply.

2. Read Books Together: Reading aloud to your child helps with language development. Point to pictures and say the names of objects.

3. Sing Songs and Nursery Rhymes: This can help with their language development by introducing new words and rhythms.

4. Encourage Socialization: If possible, let your child interact with peers, as they tend to pick up language skills from other children.

5. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can interfere with speech development, so encourage more interactive activities instead.

6. Consult a Pediatrician: If you're worried about the delay or notice other developmental concerns (e.g., difficulty understanding commands, no gestures like pointing, etc.), it’s a good idea to discuss it with your pediatrician. They may recommend a speech therapy evaluation.

When to Be Concerned:

If your child is not using any words (even simple ones) by 18 months.

If your child is not showing interest in social interactions or eye contact.

If your child is not understanding simple commands, such as "come here" or "give me the ball."

In most cases, speech delays are not a major concern, but early intervention can help. A pediatrician or a speech therapist can provide more specific guidance based on your child's overall development.