Early Language Strategies for Late Talkers

💬 Who Are Late Talkers?

Late talkers are children between 18–30 months who understand language well, play and interact socially, but have limited spoken words for their age. While some catch up on their own, many benefit from extra support at home and, when needed, from a speech-language pathologist.

👪 How You Can Help: Simple, Powerful Strategies

The Hanen Centre emphasizes that you are your child’s most important communication partner. Here are some key strategies you can start using during everyday routines:

🧍‍♀️1. Follow Your Child’s Lead

• Watch what your child is interested in.

• Wait—give them time to communicate in their own way.

• Listen and respond with interest.

🔁 Why it helps: Builds motivation and makes communication meaningful.

🗣️2. Use Language That Matches Their Level

• Speak in short, simple phrases.

• For example, if your child says “ball,” you can say, “Big ball!” or “Throw ball!”

🧠 Tip: Use one word more than your child uses.

🎭3. Get Face-to-Face

• Sit or crouch at your child’s level.

• Make eye contact and let them see your facial expressions and mouth movements.

📷 Why it helps: Makes it easier for them to watch and learn from you.

🔁 4. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat

• Repeat important words often during play or daily routines.

• E.g., during bath time: “Water... splash! Splash water!”

💧Why it helps: Repetition helps build understanding and memory.

🎵 5. Add Fun Sounds, Actions, and Gestures

• Use silly sounds, gestures, or signs (e.g., waving for “bye”).

• Sing songs with actions (like “The Wheels on the Bus”).

🎶 Why it helps: Increases attention and helps children connect meaning to words.

📚 6. Read Together Every Day

• Choose books with simple pictures and repeatable phrases.

• Label what your child points to. Let them turn the pages and choose the book.

📖 Try: Books with animals, vehicles, or everyday routines.

💡 When Should I Be Concerned?

Consider consulting a speech-language pathologist if your child:

• Is not using words by 18 months

• Has less than 50 words by 2 years

• Is hard to understand or becomes frustrated when trying to communicate

• Shows little interest in interacting or playing with others