Lacy 07/20/2010
Question:
My son is 19 months old and all he will say is "Ma" and "Ba". We have been working on "Dada" for quite awhile and he just won't say it. He makes other noises, grunts, yells and makes "raspberries" with his tongue. But when it comes to speaking, he acts like he just can't. I have had several people ask me if he was autistic. Should I be worried about his speech at this age?
While every child develops at his or her own pace, the typical 12 month old says at least one word clearly, and the typical 18 month old uses 5 or more words as names of things.
Children who are not yet using expressive language as expected may benefit from further evaluation and possibly treatment. Autism entails more than delays in using words to speak, but also may include diminished social interest, play skills, nonverbal communication, and specific behaviors.
Since early intervention is most effective when offered to very young children, you should talk to your child's pediatrician about your concerns and decide together what the next steps should be.