2-year-old child not speaking?

Speech development at age 2 varies from child to child, but if we need to give a general guideline: At this age, a child is expected to use at least 50 words and begin forming simple two-word sentences (like "mom come", "want milk"). If your child isn't using any words or has very few words, and also shows limited effort to communicate through gestures or pointing, an evaluation is recommended.

What's important is that the child understands what they hear (receptive language). If your child understands simple instructions they hear, responds by looking at you, and engages in purposeful play with toys, receptive language is usually good; expressive language (speaking) sometimes develops more slowly.

When to consult a specialist:

• If there are no words at age 2 or only echolalia (just repeating what's heard)
• If not making eye contact, not responding to name, or not engaging in purposeful play
• If there are hearing concerns (turning up TV volume, not responding to sound)
• If language delay is accompanied by behavioral differences (repetitive behaviors, spinning/rocking)

Current pediatric opinion recommends seeing your child doctor and, if needed, getting an evaluation from a child development specialist or speech therapist. Early intervention can make a huge difference in language development — rather than waiting for a sudden breakthrough, getting checked is always the right choice.