My 18-Month-Old Isn't Talking Yet: What's Typical and What to Watch
Written by Eugene Tng, QASP-S, Programme Director at ABA LABS
Your child has just turned one and a half, and you are still waiting for those first clear words. Perhaps a cousin of the same age is already saying "car" and "bye bye", and you cannot help comparing. At 18 months, there is a wide range of what is typical, and many quiet toddlers catch up. Still, this is a good age to look more closely, because it is also when some early signs become easier to spot.
What Is Typical at 18 Months
Most 18-month-olds are communicating in several ways, not just with words. Broadly, you might expect your toddler to:
Say a few single words, such as "mama", "milk" or "ball", even if they are not perfectly clear.
Point to show you things and to ask for things.
Understand simple words and familiar names, like "shoes" or "Daddy".
Follow a simple instruction, such as "give me the cup".
Use gestures like waving, shaking their head or raising their arms to be picked up.
Our guide on when toddlers start talking explains the milestones before and after this age in more detail.
Understanding Matters as Much as Talking
When parents worry about speech, they often focus on words said. But what your child understands is just as important. A toddler who follows instructions, points to pictures in a book and responds to their name is showing strong understanding, even if they are not yet speaking much. If you are unsure of the difference, read expressive vs receptive language.
Gestures Are Early Language
Pointing, waving and showing are all signs that your child wants to communicate. Children who use lots of gestures often go on to use words, because the drive to connect is already there. If your toddler rarely gestures, it is worth paying closer attention.
Red Flags to Watch For
Speak to a professional if your 18-month-old:
Has no words at all, or has not started using words by around 16 months.
Does not point to show you things.
Does not seem to understand simple words or respond to their name.
Rarely looks at you or shares attention with you.
Does not copy sounds, actions or gestures.
Has lost words or skills they previously had.
None of these signs alone means your child has a particular condition. But together, or alongside other concerns, they suggest an assessment would be helpful. You may also find it useful to read about signs of autism in toddlers.
The 18-Month Developmental Check
In Singapore, your child's Health Booklet includes developmental checks at set ages, including around 18 months, usually carried out at the polyclinic or by your family doctor or paediatrician. Use this appointment well. Write down your observations beforehand: how many words your child uses, whether they point and how they respond to you. If you have concerns, say so clearly. The doctor can refer you to the KKH or NUH Child Development Unit if needed.
What You Can Do at Home
You do not need special equipment to support your toddler's language. Try these daily:
Talk about what you are doing. "Wash hands. Water on. Bubbles!"
Keep it short. Use one or two words more than your child uses now.
Pause and wait. Give your child a few seconds to respond before filling the silence.
Create reasons to communicate. Put favourite items in sight but out of reach.
Reduce background screen time. Face-to-face interaction builds language far better.
Read and sing together. Repetition helps children learn and anticipate words.
For more ideas, see how to encourage speech development in toddlers.
Waiting vs Acting
It is common to be told to "wait and see". Sometimes that is fine. But if you have a nagging worry, an assessment gives you clarity either way. If support is needed, starting early makes the most of a period when children learn quickly. Our article on when early intervention should start explains why.
At ABA LABS, we offer developmental assessments and individualised, play-based early intervention at home for toddlers who need extra support with communication. If you are unsure whether your 18-month-old is on track, book a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for an 18 month old to not talk?
There is a wide range of what is typical at 18 months, and many quiet toddlers catch up. Most children this age say a few single words, point to show and ask for things, understand simple words and use gestures like waving. If your child has no words, does not point or does not seem to understand simple words, speak to a professional.
Where can I get my toddler's speech checked in Singapore?
Your child's Health Booklet includes a developmental check at around 18 months, usually done at the polyclinic or by your family doctor or paediatrician. Before the appointment, write down how many words your child uses, whether they point and how they respond to you, and share any concerns clearly. The doctor can refer you to the KKH or NUH Child Development Unit if needed.
Should I wait and see if my toddler starts talking?
Sometimes waiting is fine, but if you have a nagging worry, an assessment gives you clarity either way. If support is needed, starting early makes the most of a period when children learn quickly. In the meantime, talk about what you are doing, pause and wait for a response, read together and cut back on background screen time.
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Sources
CDC (Learn the Signs. Act Early.). CDC's Developmental Milestones
HealthXchange (SingHealth). Is My Child a Late Talker?
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