When should developmental delays in toddlers be a concern?

Most children say their first words between 12 and 18 months and start putting 2 words together by age 2. However, every child develops at their own pace. You should speak to your health visitor or GP if your child is not saying any words by 18 months, is not combining 2 words by age 2, does not seem to understand simple instructions, or loses language skills they previously had.

My son did not talk until he was nearly 3 and I was terrified. We got a referral to a speech and language therapist through our health visitor. Turned out he had glue ear (fluid in the middle ear) affecting his hearing, which was delaying his speech. Once that was treated with grommets, his speech caught up within 6 months. Get a hearing test done — it is the first thing they check.

This is an important congenital disorders question. We recommend speaking with your GP for personalised advice. You can also contact NHS 111 (free, 24/7) for urgent guidance, or visit nhs.uk for trusted health information. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.