Talking Milestones
What are talking milestones?
Talking milestones are the common steps children take as they learn to communicate. These steps include making sounds, using first words, combining words into short phrases, and carrying on simple back-and-forth conversations. Every child moves at their own pace, and milestones are a guide to typical patterns rather than a strict timeline.
Why talking milestones matter
Early communication skills shape how children connect with family, make friends, follow directions, and learn in school. When caregivers understand typical milestones, they can notice strengths and find opportunities to support language growth in daily routines. Early support—when needed—often makes it easier for children to build confidence, reduce frustration, and expand their ability to express needs and ideas.
What to expect in therapy or coaching
Our approach begins with listening. We start by asking about your child’s daily routines, likes, and challenges. That gives us a clear picture of how your child communicates at home, daycare, or school. A therapist or coach may observe play, listen to spontaneous speech, and gather input from caregivers and teachers to identify practical goals.
Sessions tend to be play-based and family-centered. For infants and toddlers, therapy often focuses on turn-taking, eye contact, gestures, and sounds during everyday activities like feeding, diapering, or book time. For older children and teens, work may include expanding vocabulary, building sentences, practicing conversation skills, using social language, and supporting clear speech. Coaching for caregivers is a big part of what we do—strategies you use every day usually have the greatest impact.
You can expect: - Clear, achievable goals that fit your family’s routines - Demonstrations of simple activities and scripts you can try at home - Written or video resources to reinforce practice - Regular check-ins to celebrate gains and adjust plans
When to consider support
- Your baby rarely babbles, gestures, or responds to sounds by about 9–12 months
- Your toddler has very few words or isn’t combining words by about 2 years
- Your child gets frustrated because they can’t make others understand them
- You notice changes or loss of sounds, words, or social interest
- School or caregivers report ongoing difficulty with following directions or joining group activities
How we help
- Family-centered assessment that focuses on strengths and everyday routines
- Play-based therapy and caregiver coaching to build skills during real-life moments
- Practical strategies for home, daycare, and classroom settings
- Communication goals that match your child’s interests and your family’s priorities
- Collaboration with schools and other providers as needed
We aim to make support practical, accessible, and easy to fit into your week. If you have questions about your child’s talking milestones or want to explore coaching, we’re here to listen, explain options, and help you take the next steps.