Communication, month by month
23 months
More words, little combinations
Source window: 19–24 months. Skills emerge across this range, not on a monthly deadline.
What communication can look like
- Uses and understands at least 50 different words across this ASHA age range.
- Combines two or more words; speech may not always be clear.
- Follows two-step directions and uses words like me, mine, and you.
ASHA’s 19–24-month range includes at least 50 words used and understood. CDC lists about 50 spoken words by 30 months. These are different source descriptions, not a monthly progression.
Everyday examples
more water · go outside · my ball
Illustrative sounds, words, or phrases—not a required vocabulary list. Welcome gestures, AAC, and home languages too.
A little moment to try
Build on a word during play: after ‘ball,’ try ‘roll ball.’ Keep it playful, with no request to repeat.
Ask Joey AI
A little card to share
Explore cards inspired by the CDC 18-month checkpoint. One card is free; subscriber extras are coming soon.
This is the latest published checkpoint before this month, not a new monthly milestone.
Explore family cardsGrounded in published guidance
Milestone lists describe common skills, not an assessment or diagnosis. AI can be imperfect. For individual concerns, speak with a speech-language pathologist or pediatrician. For adults only; no personal child details or saved conversations.