Language development in early childhood is the cornerstone of effective communication and learning. At Palms Day School, we focus on fostering growth in children at each stage of language acquisition. Below you will read an overview of these developmental stages based on insights from experts and research.
What are the Stages of Language Development?:
Pre-Linguistic Stage (Birth to 6 Months)
Communication begins with crying and cooing, progressing to laughter and sound experimentation. This can also be seen in non-verbal means, for example, body language and facial expressions.
Infants respond to caregivers’ voices and show recognition of familiar sounds.
How to Support: Talk to your baby, sing songs, and provide a rich auditory environment to stimulate sound recognition.
Babbling Stage (6 to 9 Months)
This is a critical phase where infants produce repetitive consonant-vowel sounds, such as "ba-ba" or "da-da." This stage reflects their experimentation with the mechanics of speech.
Babbling often mirrors the rhythm and intonation of their native language, laying the groundwork for word formation.
How to Support: Encourage babbling by mimicking their sounds, maintaining eye contact, and responding enthusiastically. Use simple, repetitive language like “yes, that is your ba-ba!”
First Words Stage or Holophrastic (9 to 18 Months)
Around their first birthday, children begin saying recognizable words, often labeling familiar people or objects.
During this stage babies may also start to use gestures to supplement their communication and aid in the message they want to convey.
How to Support: Reinforce their efforts by naming objects around them and providing plenty of exposure to spoken language through books and conversations.
Two-Word Combinations (18 to 24 Months)
Toddlers start stringing two words together to form basic sentences, i.e., “want cookie.” or “mommy work.”
How to Support: Expand on their expressions, modeling longer sentences like “You want the cookie?”
Telegraphic Stage or Simple Sentences Stage (2 to 3 Years)
Vocabulary increases as children begin forming simple sentences, such as, “mommy go work” versus “Mommy is going to work.”
These sentences typically include only the child’s essential words and they leave out the function words of the sentence, i.e., “the”, “and”, “is”.
How to Support: Ask open-ended questions and introduce more advanced vocabulary during play and reading sessions.
Refining Language Skills/Multi-Word Stage (2 ½ and up)
Vocabulary explodes as children begin forming more complex sentences that use simple grammar rules and structure.
Children are beginning storytelling, following detailed instructions, and participating in group conversations.
At this time, children may also begin to understand things such as sarcasm and humor.
How to Support: Foster creativity through role-play, storytelling, and activities that involve step-by-step problem-solving.
The Importance of Monitoring Language Milestones
Developmental milestones provide key indicators of a child’s progress. While children grow at their own pace, delayed language skills may signal a need for early intervention. Engaging with children and creating a nurturing environment are essential for building both language and social skills.
Evidence-Based Strategies
As noted by Healthy Young Minds, language acquisition is heavily influenced by interaction and sensory experiences. Singing, rhyming, and interactive play build vocabulary and comprehension, helping children express themselves with confidence
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At Palms Day School, we’re dedicated to providing an enriching environment where every child thrives. If you have concerns or questions about your child’s language development, don’t hesitate to reach out for support or consult developmental specialists.
Together, let’s support your child’s journey to becoming a confident and capable communicator!