Communication support for Early Word Attempts stage (14-16 months)

Early Word Attempts stage milestones

  • Tries to say one or two words besides "mama" or "dada"

  • Looks at a familiar object when you name it

  • Points to ask for something or to get help

  • Follows directions given with both a gesture and words

Activities and Ideas:

Word Learning Support:

  • Repeat your child's word attempts clearly: if they say "ba" for ball, say "Ball! Yes, ball!"

  • Use simple, clear words during daily activities

  • Give your child time to try saying words before providing help

  • Focus on words your child is interested in or needs frequently

Vocabulary Building:

  • Name favourite toys, foods, and family members consistently

  • Use books with simple pictures and single words

  • Point to and name body parts during bath time or changing

  • Describe what you're doing in simple words: "Pour water," "Wash hands"

Encouraging Pointing:

  • Respond immediately when your child points to something

  • Point to things yourself and name them

  • Use pointing games: "Where's the ball?" and wait for them to point

  • Acknowledge pointing as communication: "You're showing me the dog!"

Following Simple Instructions:

  • Use gestures alongside words: say "Come here" while opening your arms

  • Give simple, one-step directions: "Get your shoes" while pointing to them

  • Use familiar objects and actions in your instructions

  • Praise success, even if they only partially follow the instruction

Daily Routine Opportunities:

  • During meals, name foods and wait for your child to look at or point to them

  • Use dressing time to name clothes and body parts

  • Create opportunities for your child to point to things they want

  • Make instruction-following part of fun activities rather than demands

Important Information About These Milestones

Sources and Development

These communication milestones are derived from two widely recognised and evidence-based developmental screening tools:

  • CDC Developmental Milestones (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024 revision)

  • Ages & Stages Questionnaires® (ASQ®) screening tool

These milestones represent what most children (75% or more) can do by each age, based on available research data and expert consensus from developmental specialists.

Individual Differences

Every child is unique and develops at their own pace. It's completely normal for children to:

  • Master some skills earlier or later than the typical timeframe

  • Show uneven development across different areas

  • Progress through milestones in a different order

  • Have periods of rapid development followed by slower phases

Important Disclaimers

This guide is for educational purposes only and should not be used as:

  • A substitute for professional developmental screening or assessment

  • A diagnostic tool for developmental concerns

  • The sole basis for making decisions about your child's development

When to seek professional guidance:

  • If your child is not meeting several milestones in their age group

  • If your child loses skills they previously had

  • If you have ongoing concerns about your child's development

  • If your child was born prematurely (adjust expectations accordingly)

Professional support is available:

  • Speak with your child's GP, health visitor, or paediatrician

  • Contact your local early years services or children's centre

  • Request a developmental assessment if you have concerns

How to Use This Information

  • Use these milestones as a general guide, not a checklist

  • Focus on supporting your child's natural development

  • Celebrate your child's unique progress and strengths

  • Remember that providing a loving, language-rich environment is more important than meeting specific timelines

You know your child best. Trust your instincts and seek professional advice if you have concerns about your child's communication development.

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