Guide to promote your child’s language development skills

Language development is one of the most exciting and essential parts of early childhood. But every child develops language at their own pace and in their own unique way. Some children are chatty early on. Others may take time to start using words but show a strong understanding of what’s being said around them.

We explore how children develop communication skills over time, how you can support this journey in everyday ways, and when to reach out for help, all while honouring your child’s individual learning style and needs.

What is language development?

Language development refers to how children understand and use spoken, non-verbal, and written communication. It’s not just about words,  it also includes gestures, tone, body language, eye contact, facial expressions, and more.

Before a child begins speaking actual words, they are already communicating through:

• Cooing
• Babbling
• Gestures
• Smiles and expressions
• Tone and cries

These are all important and valid forms of communication. Language development happens gradually and builds on these early experiences.

Common language milestones

Every child develops at their own pace, but here are some general signs of how communication and language may grow over time:

6–8 weeks

• Responds to emotional tones like anger or affection
• Begins smiling socially
• Makes soft cooing sounds

2–4 months

• Reacts to familiar voices
• Enjoys face-to-face interaction
• Shows excitement when being spoken to

6–9 month

• Starts babbling (e.g., “ba-ba,” “da-da”)
• May recognize own name
• Understands simple commands like “no” or “come here”

12 months

• Says first clear word (like “mama” or “ball”)
• Follows basic instructions (“give me the toy”)
• Points to objects of interest

18 months

• Uses 10–20 simple words
• Understands much more than they can say
• Starts identifying body parts, pictures in books, and familiar people

2 years

• Combines two words (“want juice,” “daddy go”)
• Asks simple questions
• Follows two-step directions

3–4 years

• Speaks in clear, longer sentences
• Asks “why” and “how” questions
• Most people can understand their speech
• Talks about events and feelings

Why is language development important?

Language helps children:

• Express needs and emotions
• Build relationships and trust
• Learn new concepts
• Engage in play and creativity
• Become confident and understood

Good communication is also deeply linked to emotional well-being and self-regulation when children feel heard, they feel safer and more secure.

A neuro affirming approach to communication

Children who are neurodivergent (such as those with Autism, ADHD, or Developmental Delays) may develop language differently. This doesn’t mean something is “wrong”,  it means they have a different communication style.

Some children use alternative or augmentative communication (AAC) methods such as pictures, gestures, or devices. Others may take longer to speak or use more visual ways of understanding language. Respecting these differences is essential.

How to support your child’s language development

1. Communication is connection

• Talk to your baby regularly, even if they don’t respond in words.
• Describe what you’re doing (“Mama is washing the cup,” “Let’s open the door now”)
• Make eye contact and speak face-to-face when possible.
• Follow their lead, talk about what they are looking at or interested in.
• Respond with warmth and curiosity, not correction.
  

2. Simplify speech without dumbing It down

• Use short, clear sentences.
• Emphasize key words: “This is your cup.”
• Pair words with gestures to help understanding.
• Leave pauses so your child has time to process or reply.
• Repeat new words in different situations.
  

3. Turn daily life into learning

You don’t need expensive tools or apps. Your home is the best learning space.

• Talk during everyday routines like bathing, dressing, or eating.
• Read simple picture books together and name objects.
• Use songs, rhymes, and actions — rhythm helps learning stick.
• Sort laundry and name clothes or colors.
• While cooking, describe textures, colors, and smells.
  

4. Be a responsive listener

• If your child points or babbles, respond meaningfully. Say, “You want the ball? Here it is!”
• Don’t focus only on correcting grammar. Instead, expand: If they say “car go,” you can say, “Yes, the red car is going fast!”
• Create a calm space with low background noise so your child can hear and focus.
• Celebrate all attempts to communicate, even if they’re not in full words.

When to seek help

If your child:

• May not respond to sounds or their name
• May show limited eye contact or interaction
• Isn’t babbling by 12 months
• Has very few words by 2 years
• May not be combining or using words consistently by 2.5 years
• May show signs of frustration when trying to communicate or be understood

It might be helpful to speak to a Pediatrician. They may refer you to a Speech and Language Therapist (SLP) for assessment and support.

Early support can help a child communicate in ways that work best for them, whether through spoken words, signs, visuals, or other methods.

Additional resources

Want more support on this journey?
Check out our Language Development Booklet and videos on speech, language, and communication. These include activities you can try at home.

You can also contact the Nayi Disha FREE Helpline:
844-844-8996 (Call or WhatsApp) Our counselors speak English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali and can help guide you to the right professionals.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. For any concerns related to speech, language, or developmental delays, please consult a qualified health practitioner for proper guidance.