Late Talkers and Language Development: When to Be Concerned and How to Help
- claire2876
- Apr 24
- 2 min read
Every toddler develops at their own pace—but if your child isn’t using many words by the time their second birthday rolls around, you might be wondering: Is this normal? Should I be worried? When should I speak to a speech pathologist?
In this blog, we explore what’s considered typical in toddler language development, what to look for in a “late talker,” and how early support can make a lasting difference.
What Is a Late Talker?
A late talker is a toddler (typically between 18–30 months) who has a good understanding of language, plays and interacts socially, but isn’t using as many spoken words as expected for their age.
For example:
At 18 months, most toddlers say around 20 words.
By 2 years, toddlers typically use 50+ words and start combining 2-word phrases (e.g. “more milk,” “go park”).
If your child isn’t meeting these milestones—but seems to understand what’s said to them and engages with others—they may be a late talker.
Signs That Support May Be Needed
Your child may benefit from seeing a speech pathologist if they:
Are not saying any words by 18 months
Use fewer than 50 words by 2 years
Are not combining words by 2.5 years
Have poor eye contact or limited gestures
Don’t imitate sounds, words, or actions
Get frustrated when trying to communicate
Seem to understand less than expected for their age
Even if they seem to be “catching up,” early input can prevent future difficulties with learning, behaviour, or social skills.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Children’s brains are especially adaptable in the first few years of life. The earlier therapy begins, the more progress we can make. Early language delays can affect:
Literacy development
Classroom learning
Social interactions
Confidence and emotional regulation
Early therapy helps children catch up—and stay caught up.
What Speech Therapy for Toddlers Looks Like
At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, we provide:
Play-based assessments that feel fun and engaging
Parent coaching so you can support language development during daily routines
Simple strategies to boost word learning and communication
Individualised therapy plans with goals tailored to your child
Group-based support, including our Early Communication Group
Therapy may include gesture modelling, verbal routines, books and songs, or using visuals and objects to support learning.
What You Can Do at Home
If you’re waiting for therapy or just want to support your child’s development:
Talk about what you’re doing: “I’m washing the cup,” “Let’s open the door.”
Repeat and expand: If they say “car,” you can say “Yes, a red car is driving fast!”
Pause and wait: Give your child time to respond—they may just need a second.
Read together daily: Books with repetition, rhyme, and simple pictures are best.
Limit screen time: Interactive play and real conversation are far more effective for language learning.
We’re Here to Support You
Whether your child is a late talker or you just have questions about their development, our speech pathologists can provide the guidance, reassurance, and tools you need.
Join our waitlist today to book a language development screening or initial consult with our friendly team.
