# Speech Milestone Guide for Toddlers

## Overview
Speech development milestones for children ages 12-36 months, based on clinical research and speech-language pathology guidelines.

## 12-18 Months
- First words (mama, dada, bye-bye)
- 3-20 words in vocabulary
- Follows simple one-step directions
- Points to request items
- Imitates sounds and words

## 18-24 Months
- 50+ words in vocabulary
- Two-word combinations ("more milk", "go car")
- Names familiar objects
- Follows two-step directions
- Uses gestures with words

## 24-30 Months
- 200+ words in vocabulary
- 2-3 word sentences
- Uses pronouns (me, you, mine)
- Asks simple questions
- Speech 50% intelligible to strangers

## 30-36 Months
- 1000+ words in vocabulary
- 3-4 word sentences
- Uses plurals and past tense
- Tells simple stories
- Speech 75% intelligible to strangers

## Red Flags
Contact a speech-language pathologist if your child:
- Has fewer than 10 words by 18 months
- No two-word combinations by 24 months
- Cannot follow simple directions by 24 months
- Speech is mostly unintelligible by 30 months
- Loses previously acquired skills

## How Apps Can Help
- Provide consistent speech models
- Encourage imitation and repetition
- Make practice fun and engaging
- Support parent-child interaction
- Supplement professional therapy

## When to Seek Help
Early intervention is key. Contact a professional if you have concerns about your child's speech development.

Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) guidelines and clinical research.