When do children start talking?
Most children say “mama” or “dada” by 1 year. Most put two words together by 2 years. If your child is behind, ask a doctor early.
What do most children say, age by age?
| 1 year | Says “mama”, “dada” or another special name. Waves bye-bye. Understands “no”. |
|---|---|
| 1½ years | Tries to say 3 or more words besides “mama” and “dada”. |
| 2 years | Puts two words together, like “more milk”. Points to parts of the body or to pictures when you ask. |
| 3 years | Talks back and forth with you. Says their first name. Others understand them most of the time. |
| 4 years | Says sentences with 4 or more words. Tells you one thing from their day. |
“Most” means 3 in 4 children or more. This list comes from the CDC, a US health agency, and was updated in 2022.
Is talking only about words?
No. Before words, children wave, point and look at you. They understand words before they can say them.
When should I ask a doctor?
- Your child cannot do what most children do at their age.
- Your child stops saying words, or stops doing things they did before. Go soon, at any age.
- Your child is 9 months or older and does not look up when you call their name.
- You are worried. That is reason enough to ask.
How can I help my child talk?
- Talk to your child all through the day.
- Look at picture books together.
- Play together every day.
Questions parents ask
My child understands but does not talk. Is that okay?
Understanding is good. But if your child is behind in talking, still ask a doctor. A hearing test and a speech check can help.
How many words should a 2 year old say?
Most 2 year olds put two words together, like “more milk”. US child doctors say many know about 50 to 100 words.
Our child talked, then stopped. What should we do?
See a doctor soon. Losing words at any age needs a check-up.
Where this comes from
- CDC: Milestones by age (2022)
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Language delays in toddlers
- NICE: Autism in under 19s, recognition and referral
Checked on: 21 October 2026
This page is general information, not medical advice. Every child is different.
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