Communication, month by month
26 months
Little phrases, bigger ideas
Source window: 2–3 years. Skills emerge across this range, not on a monthly deadline.
What communication can look like
- Often combines words.
- Uses some plurals and action words ending in -ing.
- Asks why or how, answers questions, and gives reasons.
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
dog running · two cars · why?
Illustrative sounds, words, or phrases—not a required vocabulary list. Welcome gestures, AAC, and home languages too.
A little moment to try
Describe what happens in pretend play. Add one small idea to a word or phrase, then pause.
Ask Joey AI
A little card to share
Explore cards inspired by the CDC 24-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.