2 Year Old Not Talking? The Skills That Come Before Words

Is your 2 year old not talking, minimally verbal, or non-verbal? Learn about the foundational communication skills that come before words and simple ways you can support your child's communication at home.

Is your 2-year-old not talking yet, or using very few words?

It can be worrying when you see other children talking and your child is still finding it difficult to communicate.

Talking does not start with words. Before a child can use words, they need to develop skills such as paying attention to people, taking turns, copying sounds and actions, understanding language, and wanting to communicate.

When we support these foundational skills, we give children important building blocks for communication.

What research tells us?

Research has found a connection between limited vocabulary and increased frustration in young children. When toddlers have difficulty expressing what they want, need, or feel, they may rely on other ways of communicating, including crying, tantrums, or other behaviours.

This is why communication support can be important even when a child understands much of what is being said to them. Understanding language is an important strength, but children also need opportunities to develop ways to express themselves.

Supporting communication does not have to mean hours of drills or flashcards. Everyday play and interaction can create meaningful opportunities for children to practise communicating.

What activities can you do?

Start by making interaction fun and following your child's lead. Join in with what they are already doing, copy their actions and sounds, and create simple back-and-forth games such as peekaboo, tickles, or “Ready, set, go!”

Use expectant pauses during familiar routines. Say “Ready, set…” and pause, giving your child time to look at you, make a sound, move, or use another form of communication. Their response does not have to be a word to be meaningful.

You can also practise simple sounds through play. Try putting objects into a bucket together while modelling an easy sound such as “ah”. Keep it playful, repeat the sound, and pause to give your child an opportunity to have a turn.

Most importantly, notice and respond to every attempt to communicate. A look, sound, gesture, movement, or action can all be important steps towards communication.

Watch the video

In this video, we explore what can be happening underneath the surface when a 2 year old is not talking, minimally verbal, or non-verbal. We look at the foundational skills that support speech and share practical strategies you can use during everyday play and routines.

We also introduce the 10 Steps to Speaking, including ways to build connection, imitation, expectant pauses, and early communication skills. If you're concerned about your child's communication, Grow For It provides online support Australia-wide, as well as face-to-face services in South-East Melbourne for children supported through the NDIS.