What milestones tell you
The CDC lists milestones that most children (75% or more) reach by each age. Every child grows at their own pace, so a checklist is not a diagnosis. It helps you notice what to talk about with your child's doctor.
By 12 months
- Waves "bye-bye"
- Calls a parent "mama" or "dada" or another special name
- Understands "no" (pauses briefly or stops when you say it)
By 15 months
- Tries to say one or two words besides "mama" or "dada," like "ba" for ball or "da" for dog
- Looks at a familiar object when you name it
- Follows directions given with both a gesture and words, such as giving you a toy when you hold out your hand and say, "Give me the toy."
- Points to ask for something or to get help
By 18 months
- Tries to say three or more words besides "mama" or "dada"
- Follows one-step directions without any gestures, like giving you the toy when you say, "Give it to me."
By 2 years
- Points to things in a book when you ask, like "Where is the bear?"
- Says at least two words together, like "More milk."
- Points to at least two body parts when you ask your child to show you
- Uses more gestures than just waving and pointing, like blowing a kiss or nodding yes
By 30 months
- Says about 50 words
- Says two or more words together, with one action word, like "Doggie run"
- Names things in a book when you point and ask, "What is this?"
- Says words like "I," "me," or "we"
By 3 years
- Talks with you in conversation using at least two back-and-forth exchanges
- Asks "who," "what," "where," or "why" questions
- Says what action is happening in a picture or book when asked, like "running," "eating," or "playing"
- Says first name, when asked
- Talks well enough for others to understand, most of the time
If you are worried
You know your child best. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills they once had, or you have other concerns, act early. The CDC says not to wait.
Talk with your child's doctor and ask about developmental screening. You can also contact Early Intervention yourself. You do not need a doctor's referral.
In New York City, call 311 and ask for Early Intervention, or use the city's online referral portal. You can also send us a referral, and a staff member will contact you.
How Early Intervention can help
If your child is eligible, a speech-language pathologist can work with your child at home or in another everyday setting. They help with first words, understanding, and the back-and-forth of communication, and they show you ways to practice during your day. For eligible children, services are at no cost to your family.
Sources
- CDC: Important milestones by 1 year (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: Important milestones by 15 months (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: Important milestones by 18 months (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: Important milestones by 2 years (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: Important milestones by 30 months (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: Important milestones by 3 years (opens in a new tab)
- CDC: If you're concerned about your child's development (opens in a new tab)
- NYC Health: Early Intervention (opens in a new tab)
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your child's doctor about your child.