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How to Get Your Toddler to Say 2 Words Together: The Add-One-Word Method

Writer: ABA LABS
ABA LABS
46 minutes ago
3 min read

Written by Eugene Tng, QASP-S, Programme Director at ABA LABS


Your child says one word at a time: "milk", "car", "up". You want to hear two words together. The good news is that you do not need flashcards or long practice sessions. A simple method, used in everyday moments, can help. We call it the add-one-word method.

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Why it works

Children learn best from talk that is just one step ahead of them. When you say their word back and add one more, you show them exactly what to try next. Studies show that when parents use simple language strategies, such as building on what their child says, young children with language delays tend to make more progress. Parents can use them many times a day, in real life.


Step 1: Wait

Get face to face with your child. Pause for a few seconds (about 3 to 5) and let them go first. It feels long, but the pause gives your child a chance to try.

Avoid: talking for them before they have tried.


Step 2: Say their word back

Copy their word with a happy voice. Child: "ball". You: "ball!" This tells them you heard them and that their word worked.

Avoid: correcting them, like "No, say BALL properly."


Step 3: Add one word

Say their word plus one more word. Just one, so it stays easy to copy.

  • "car" becomes "blue car" or "car go"

  • "juice" becomes "more juice" or "apple juice"

  • "up" becomes "up please" or "go up"

Avoid: adding a whole long sentence. "Do you want to go up to the playground now?" is too big a jump.


Step 4: Don't make them repeat

Give the item, smile and move on. Hearing the 2-word phrase is enough. Over time, many children start to copy it on their own.

Avoid: holding the toy or snack until they say the words. Pressure tends to reduce talking.


Where to use it

Use it in routines you already do every day: meals, bath time, play, getting dressed and outings. A few minutes, many times a day, works better than one long practice session.


When to check

By 2 years, most children put two words together. If your child has no 2-word pairs by age 2, or has lost words they used to say, talk to your polyclinic or GP doctor. Keep using these steps while you wait. They help either way.


Not sure if your child is on track? Take our 8 question quiz on YouTube: Is My 2 Year Old on Track?


At ABA LABS, we help toddlers build first words and early communication through individualised, play-based early intervention in your own home. If you would like support for your child, book a consultation.


Frequently Asked Questions


When should a toddler start putting two words together?

By 2 years, most children put two words together, such as "more milk". If your child has no 2-word pairs by age 2, or has lost words they used to say, talk to your polyclinic or GP doctor. Keep using the add-one-word steps while you wait, as they help either way.


Should I make my toddler repeat the words after me?

No. Give the item, smile and move on. Hearing the 2-word phrase from you is enough, and over time many children start to copy it on their own. Holding back a toy or snack until your child says the words adds pressure, and pressure tends to reduce talking rather than increase it.


How often should I practise the add-one-word method?

Use it in routines you already do every day, such as meals, bath time, play, getting dressed and outings. A few minutes, many times a day, works better than one long practice session, and there is no need for flashcards. Your helper and grandparents can use the same steps too.


Free milestone checklist

See what most children do at each age, and what is worth a check. Get the free milestone checklist.


Have a question about your child? Message us on WhatsApp. It is free and there is no obligation.


This article is for education only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis.


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