Two-year olds are generally talkers, though most of the time we do not even know what they’re saying. However, their words mean something to them.
The toddler’s mind is ahead of their mouth literally. Their new motor skills are not coordinated with each other. In the mind of the toddler, all the words are right, but when they try to convert the thought to speech, gibberish comes out. Don’t worry if sometimes they sound like they are saying complete sentences in a foreign language. Most toddlers will gradually get better at forming their words in due time.
To assess a toddler’s language skills it is better to look at what they are comprehending. Most are very curious and ask a lot of questions. My youngest seems like she is always saying, “Why, why, but why?”
My toddler looks at unfamiliar objects to try to figure out what it is for. She really has the classic “can do attitude.” If it has a key, button, switch, etc., she thinks she can do it–everything from computers to the lawn mower. We are going to have to keep those keys hidden when she gets older.
Another language milestone for toddlers is the word “no.” This is probably the most powerful word they have found up to this point, and they’ve definitely learned how to use it. Just remember, when they’re asking questions, they can understand far more than they can express. Most of my toddler’s communications with me is through gestures. At this age it’s a good idea to take a second to figure out what your toddler is trying to get across. This will make life less stressful for both of you.
In the past, some experts suggested pressuring a child to talk when they gesture, as a way to promote verbal skills. For example, if she points to a ball out of reach, you are pretty certain she wants the ball. Historically, the parent would be advised to withhold the ball and ask, “If you want the ball say a ball.” This is not true anymore. Many experts rightfully believe effective communication should be encouraged and nurtured and withholding an item the child has effectively asked for places too little emphasis on communication and too much pressure on verbal speech.
While we all want our children to speak, the truth is, verbalization will come to the typical child in due time. Applying additional pressure may delay the onset of speech. Early development of milestones is a parent’s contest not the child’s. Allow things to happen naturally and nurture the skills as they emerge. If your child has delays that you are concerned about ask for a referral to a specialist who can provide specific guidance to your situation. And enjoy the moment, she will never be this age again.