Should a 2-Year-Old Speak Clearly?

Every 2-year-old's speech develops at a different pace. Some kids this age speak very clearly while others are not quite there yet. According to KidsHealth.org, in general, you can expect to understand about half of what comes out of your munchkin's mouth at the age of 2. As for the other half, well, eventually those words will become discernible, too.

  1. Toddler Talk

    • Your 2-year-old understands more of what you say than the other way around, as the American Academy of Pediatrics points out. Still, you may find that your wordy little one has a rapidly expanding vocabulary. According to KidsHealth.org, by the time your toddler turns 2, he is able to say 50 words or more. He should also be putting together simple sentences like, "Dog barks" and "More milk."

    He Said, She Said

    • The little girl next door may be speaking in crystal-clear five- or six-word sentences while your quiet cutie has only said a few distinguishable things like "ball" and "cup." The AAP cautions against comparing your child's speech to that of other 2-year-olds, as the development of language varies more at this age than in any other area. Instead, try to focus on how your child's intelligible speech is progressing, rather than how he measures up to a friend.

    Gift of Gab

    • Parents play an important role in helping kids develop speech and language skills. KidsHealth.org notes the importance of speaking to your toddler like you would anyone else. In other words: no baby talk. You want your little one to learn the right way to say words, after all. AskDrSears.com also notes that reading to your toddler enhances his vocabulary skills. He'll also pick up on proper pronunciation by listening to his favorite stories.

    Yakety Yak, Don't Talk Back

    • If your 2-year-old isn't saying many words, or is very hard to understand when he pronounces the words he does know, bring it up with your pediatrician. While your child may just be a little slower to speak than some of his playgroup buddies, it can't hurt to address your concerns with a medical professional. After all, as the AAP points out, early detection is key to getting your little one on track with his language skills.

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