15 Month Old Not Saying Words: What You Need To Know

Introduction

If your 15 month old baby is not saying words yet, you may be wondering if this is normal or if there is something to worry about. While every child develops at their own pace, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine if your child is on track with their language development. In this article, we will explore what to expect from a 15 month old’s language skills, when to seek help, and some tips to encourage language development in your child.

What’s Normal at 15 Months?

At 15 months old, most children will have a vocabulary of a few simple words, such as “mama” and “dada.” They may also be able to understand and follow simple commands, such as “come here” or “give me the toy.” However, not all children will reach these milestones at the same time, and some may take longer to develop their language skills.

When to Seek Help

If your 15 month old is not saying any words and does not seem to understand simple commands, it may be a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. While every child develops at their own pace, a delay in language development could be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a hearing problem or a developmental disorder. Your pediatrician can help determine if further evaluation is needed.

Tips to Encourage Language Development

There are several things you can do to encourage your 15 month old’s language development. Here are some tips: 1. Talk to your baby often. Use simple words and short sentences, and repeat words often so your baby can hear them in different contexts. 2. Read to your baby every day. Choose books with colorful pictures and simple words. Point to the pictures and name them as you read. 3. Sing songs and nursery rhymes. This will help your baby learn new words and develop a sense of rhythm. 4. Play games that involve language, such as “peek-a-boo” or “pat-a-cake.” This will help your baby learn the rhythm and flow of language. 5. Limit screen time. Research has shown that excessive screen time can have a negative impact on language development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your 15 month old is not saying words yet, it may be helpful to talk to your pediatrician. However, every child develops at their own pace, and some may take longer to develop their language skills. By talking to your baby often, reading to them, singing songs, playing games, and limiting screen time, you can help encourage their language development. Remember, every little bit helps, and your baby will get there in their own time.