When should I worry if my toddler isn’t talking yet?
If your toddler has no words by 15–18 months, or is not combining two words by age 2, a speech-language evaluation is recommended.
At the HEED Coalition and The Basics Southcoast/RI, we believe that language and speech support are vital to children’s learning, connection, and long-term success. From the earliest sounds to first words and conversations, language development shapes how children express themselves, build relationships, and understand the world around them.
Language and speech supports help caregivers recognize typical patterns of communication development, encourage rich interaction at home, and identify when additional support may be helpful. Early attention to speech and language can strengthen confidence, reduce frustration, and open pathways to learning during the critical years from birth to five.
The resources in this section of the Birth to Five Resource Guide are offered to provide guidance, practical strategies, and information about available supports related to speech and language development. Our hope is that these tools help caregivers feel informed, empowered, and prepared to support communication in everyday moments.
These materials are informational in nature and are not intended to replace evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a physician, speech-language pathologist, or other licensed clinical provider. If you have concerns about a child’s speech or language development, a qualified professional can provide individualized assessment and recommendations.
Every word, gesture, and interaction matters. We hope these resources serve as a steady guide as you support communication, connection, and growth in the early years.
If your toddler has no words by 15–18 months, or is not combining two words by age 2, a speech-language evaluation is recommended.
No. EI evaluations and services are free in both RI and MA.
Yes. High screen exposure (without human interaction) is associated with fewer spoken words.
No. Bilingual exposure does not delay speech. Seek help if delays exist in both languages
No. Early brain development peaks from birth to age 3—earlier support leads to stronger communication skills.
Typically:
Play-based assessment of:
Talk, sing, label objects, pause for responses, use routines (“bath time,” “snack time”), read daily, and repeat key words.
Reduced caregiver interaction may slow language exposure. EI can support both parents and children.
Yes. Most Southcoast EI programs support Portuguese, Spanish, Cape Verdean Creole, and often Haitian Creole
Important Notice
The Birth to Five Resource Guide is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. By using this site, you acknowledge that you are accessing these materials voluntarily and at your own discretion.
The information shared here is not intended to replace professional medical, clinical, legal, or therapeutic advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician, pediatrician, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding health, development, or medical conditions.
The HEED Coalition and The Basics Southcoast/RI make no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of the information provided and assume no liability for any decisions made or actions taken based on the use of this site.
Use of this site constitutes your acceptance of these terms.
