What Parents Should Know
The preschool years (ages 2 to 5) are a critical time for speech and language development. During this stage, children move from saying simple words to forming full sentences, expressing emotions, asking questions, and telling stories. Understanding the typical milestones and how to support your child’s growth can make a big difference in their communication skills and confidence.
🧠 What is Speech and Language?
Speech is how we say sounds and words (articulation, fluency, voice).
Language is the system of words and rules we use to communicate ideas and feelings (vocabulary, sentence formation, understanding).
Both are essential for expressing needs, making friends, learning in school, and building self-esteem.
📈 Developmental Milestones by Age
✅ By Age 2:
Says around 50 words
Begins combining two words (e.g., “more juice”, “mama go”)
Points to objects when named
Follows simple directions (e.g., “Give me the ball”)
✅ By Age 3:
Uses 3-4 word sentences
Asks simple questions like “what” and “where”
Understands most everyday conversations
Can be understood by familiar adults most of the time
✅ By Age 4:
Speaks in full sentences
Uses correct pronouns (I, you, me, he, she)
Asks many questions (“Why?” becomes common!)
Can tell simple stories
✅ By Age 5:
Speaks clearly and fluently in conversations
Understands sequencing (first, next, last)
Can describe objects and events in detail
Uses past and future tense (e.g., “I went to the park”)
🏡 How Parents Can Support Language Development
Talk, Talk, Talk
Narrate daily routines like cooking or getting ready. Use rich, descriptive language.Read Together Every Day
Reading builds vocabulary, listening, and imagination. Ask questions like “What do you think will happen next?”Sing Songs and Rhymes
Rhymes help children hear sounds in words, which supports early reading skills.Encourage Conversations
Give your child time to respond. Avoid interrupting or correcting too much.Play Pretend Games
Role play encourages storytelling and new vocabulary.Limit Screen Time
Focus on interactive activities instead of passive screen watching.Model Correct Speech
If your child says, “I goed to school,” respond with “Yes, you went to school! How was it?”
⚠️ When to Seek Help
If your child:
Has very limited vocabulary for their age
Is hard to understand by family members after age 3
Struggles to follow simple directions
Doesn’t form sentences by age 4
Stutters or has a hoarse voice often
…consider consulting a speech-language pathologist. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.
