Parents’ corner

Practical, kind guidance for everyday life with little ones: milestones, ideas for home, and when it might help to talk to someone.

Articles for parents

Short, practical reads for everyday life with little ones.

Wondering what is typical at your child’s age? Pick an age and see what most children can do with words by then.

Adapted from the CDC’s Learn the Signs. Act Early. checklists. A guide, not a diagnosis. This is not a live chat.

Milestone guide From the CDC checklists

Hi! How old is your little one? Choose an age below.

One word, a few years, a whole new world.

Around 15 months

“ba”

A first sound with a meaning: “ba” for ball.
Around 18 months

“ball”

Real words, said on purpose. Usually three or more by now.
Around 2 years

“big ball”

Two words come together.
Around 2½ years

“throw ball!”

Action words join in.
Around 3 years

“where’s my ball?”

Asks who, what, where and why questions.
Around 4 years

“can I play with the ball too?”

Sentences of four words or more.

Talk about now

Describe what you are both doing: “You’re pouring the water. Splash!”
Follow their lead

Join in with whatever has caught their attention, and talk about that.
Pause and wait

Leave a gap after you speak. Children often need a few seconds to reply.
Add one word

If they say “car”, you say “red car” or “car goes fast”.
Read together daily

Point, name and wonder aloud. The story can be yours as much as the book’s.
Sing and rhyme

Songs with actions build rhythm, memory and listening skills.

You never need a reason to ask. These are some signs it may be worth a conversation sooner rather than later.

A short conversation can bring a lot of peace of mind. We are happy to listen.