The Language Explosion

Red Flags

Even normal children whose ears are filled with parentese may refuse to speak. Some delays can be harmless, but those after the age of 3 may affect how well a child will read, write and even think.

0-3 months. Does not turn when you speak or repeat sounds like coos.

4-6 months. Does not respond to "no" or changes in tone of voice, look around for sources of sound like a doorbell, or babble in speechlike sounds such as p, b and m.

7-12 months. Does not recognize words for common items, turn when you call her name, imitate speech sounds or use sounds other than crying to get your attention.

1-2 years. Cannot point to pictures in a book that you name or understand simple questions ("Where is your Teddy?").