Late Talker
Some children just need a head start — and the right support makes all the difference.
78%
of late talkers with early intervention catch up to peers within 12 months
18 mo
the age at which we recommend a first speech evaluation
6 wks
average time before parents notice first language gains after coaching begins
What is Late Talker?
A 'late talker' is a toddler (typically 18–30 months) who has a limited vocabulary for their age but is otherwise developing typically — good understanding, good social skills, and appropriate play. While some late talkers do catch up on their own, research shows that early intervention significantly reduces the risk of longer-term language difficulties, especially when there are other risk factors.
Signs to Watch For
- Fewer than 10 words at 18 months
- Fewer than 50 words at 24 months
- Not combining two words by 24–30 months
- Understanding language well but struggling to produce it
- Using gestures, pointing, and eye contact (unlike autism)
- Family history of late talking or language difficulties
- Born premature or had recurrent ear infections
How DCCD Helps
For late talkers, our SLPs focus on building the communication foundations that support language explosion — joint attention, turn-taking, imitation, and communicative intent. We use a naturalistic, play-based approach and coach parents in language facilitation techniques they can use throughout the day. Many of our late talker families see a language burst within a few weeks of starting parent coaching.
Book an AssessmentRecommended Programmes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to take the first step?
Our intake assessment is free and gives our clinical team the information needed to build the right plan for your child.