Babies develop hearing and speech skills in a predictable sequence, though timing varies! Your bachcha will hit milestones in their own time. What matters most is steady progress. This comprehensive guide shows you exactly what to expect month by month, when to be reassured, and when to seek help.
Watch: Best Safe Developmental Toys for Babies 0–12 Months | What Every Parent Must Know! #BabyDevelopment
Tracking speech and hearing development helps you:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Hearing:
Communication:
What Parents Can Do:
Immediate Evaluation Needed:
| Age | Red Flag |
|---|---|
| Any age | Doesn't respond to loud sounds |
| 3 months | No cooing or smiling |
| 6 months | No babbling, doesn't turn to sounds |
| 9 months | Doesn't respond to name, no back-and-forth communication |
| 12 months | No words, no gestures (pointing, waving) |
| 18 months | Fewer than 10 words |
| 24 months | Fewer than 50 words, no 2-word phrases |
| 36 months | Speech unclear to familiar people |
| Any age | Loss of previously gained skills |
Boost Development:
For Bilingual Families:
Expert Insight: As our pediatricians remind parents: 'Milestones have wide ranges. Focus on progress, not comparison.'
A: First, rule out hearing issues - does baby respond to other sounds? Some babies are just focused on play. If baby responds to other sounds and is social/interactive, keep trying. If no response to name by 12 months, definitely consult your pediatrician.
A: If your child has fewer than 50 words by 24 months OR is not combining two words by age 2, consult a speech therapist. Many "late talkers" catch up, but evaluation helps identify those who need support.
A: Research says no! Bilingual children may mix languages (normal!) and sometimes hit milestones slightly later, but they catch up. Their total vocabulary across both languages is usually normal. Keep using both languages.
A: By age 2, most children have 50+ words and are starting to combine words ("more milk", "daddy go"). They should be using words more than gestures. Family members should understand about half of what they say.
A: Understanding more than speaking is normal. If your child understands well, uses gestures, and seems to be progressing, they may just be a late talker. However, if you're concerned, evaluation never hurts and can provide reassurance or early support.
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This article was reviewed by a speech-language pathologist. Last updated: January 2025
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