What are speech and language developmental milestones?

Speech and language developmental milestones combine the ability to produce sounds and words (speech) with the ability to understand and use language (language).

For example, speech milestones include babbling, pronouncing words clearly, and speaking in sentences. Language milestones include following instructions, naming objects, asking questions, and eventually using grammar correctly.

By age 2, many children can combine two words like “want juice.” By age 3–4, they often use longer sentences and understand concepts like size or colour. These milestones are critical for learning, social interaction, and self-confidence.

Monitoring both speech and language helps parents and professionals identify early signs of delay and provide timely intervention through services like speech therapy or NDIS early intervention support.

To get expert guidance on speech and language milestones, book your appointment now.