I have a 16-month-old son that can say about 200 words. Most people cannot believe he can talk so much at such a young age. I'm wondering if this is the new "normal" and other young children are talking a lot too. I've read in parenting-type magazines that that it's only expected an 18-month-old child to say 6 words.
I'm not really looking for "validation" that he is gifted or special, as one response indicated. I'm simply curious if there are other toddlers around the same age doing the same thing, mainly because what I'm reading is so far off-as far as how many words parents should even expect by this age. I realize that many children "catch up" by the time school starts. I've had other children and I don't recall them talking so much this early on.
Funny people are shocked. I have three children and they all spoke early. Words at a young age and than sentences were at 18 months old. You probably did as I did, I talked to my children alot and did use baby-talk. They asked for what they wanted, they didn't point and throw fits because I didn't understand them. Its all you girl, congrats on a fine job.
Both my boys spoke in full sentences before the age of two. People are surprised at how well my 23 month old can speak & carry on conversations, but as you can see by the responses to your post, it's not that uncommon. There's a very broad range of what's considered normal behavior developmentally. Personally, I just feel blessed that I can communicate well with my boys at such a young age- I think it cuts down on frustration & tantrums.
C. : )
most children do not say as many words as your son. my daughter was the same way, it means he is advanced in language and sound. be sure to see if others can understand the words also, sometimes we understand them because we know them so well and see their actions at the same time.
for a boy it is even more unusual, it is good to read to him and show him letters and makes the phonic sounds. there are great edu toys out there that help. as he gets older try to keep a love of language in him, sometimes children who are "quicker" get board in school and feel unchallenged, which leads them into trouble.
Also remember his age, just because he can speak well doesn't mean that he has passed through some stages of growth and many times people will judge him on his language and expect more of him thinking he is older.
i also agree with kelly f. well done mom.
Einstein didn't talk until he was four years old. Just food for thought. I think it's pretty normal for mothers of young children to look for validation that their little one is special or gifted. It's wonderful you have such a chatty little one. Let's see how he's doing a few years down the line.
