Tracking Toddler Talk: A Simple Way to Support Early Language At Home (In Person And Virtually)

Language development in toddlers is full of joyful surprises—one day it’s “ball,” and the next it’s “I want more!” As a speech-language pathologist and a mom to a 15-month-old, I know firsthand how magical and sometimes mysterious this process can feel. I’ve spent most of my career in early childhood, and one thing I’ve learned is that families want to support their child’s growth—but they also need tools that are easy to use, uncomplicated, and truly helpful.

Here’s one of my go-to suggestions, and it’s so simple:
Grab a piece of paper, fold it in half hotdog style, and create two columns. Label the left side “1 word” and the right side “2 words.” Stick it on your fridge, your wall, or anywhere you’ll see it each day.

My own personal list for my daughter, Juniper, 15mo (13mo adjusted)

How It Works

Every time your child makes an utterance (even if it’s not perfectly clear - we call these approximations), write it down. “Uh-oh,” “dog,” “mama,” “go”—they all count. Those go in the one-word column. As your child begins to string two words together—“go car,” “more milk,” “hi dada”—jot those down on the two-word side. You can even pair the words with simple signs if you're using them at home!

This isn’t about collecting data for a report—it’s about noticing your child’s growth and language in real time so that YOU can respond in goal supportive ways.

Speaking of responding in goal supportive ways - what the heck does that even look like?!

One of the most helpful ways to support your child’s language development—no matter where they are in relation to milestones or averages—is through a strategy called recasting. Recasting means you take your child’s word or phrase and gently expand or model it back to them with slightly more language. For example, if your child says “milk,” you might say, “You want more milk,” or “You’re drinking milk!” This shows them how their ideas can grow into fuller sentences without correcting or pressuring them. Recasting builds vocabulary, models grammar, and gives children rich exposure to meaningful, connected language in the moment. It’s a simple strategy that helps turn everyday interactions—mealtime, diaper changes, play—into natural learning opportunities.

Why It Matters

Milestones vs. Averages:
Every child develops at their own pace. But generally, we aim for about 50 words by 18 months, and around 200 words with two-word combinations by age 2. Hitting those first 50 words is important because kids generally need a repertoire of around 50 words to begin combining words. These benchmarks help guide us—not to pressure, but to identify when support might be needed.

It helps families tune in.

I love how this tool helps caregivers realize what their children are actually saying. Sometimes parents are surprised: “I didn’t realize she says so many words!” Other times, it reveals patterns—like a child only using nouns. That gives us a chance to model verbs, adjectives, and other types of words that enrich their vocabulary.

It shifts the focus to what’s already happening.

Even when progress feels slow, this chart reminds us that small steps count. Each word matters.

Great for In-Person and Virtual Visits

This tip is just as helpful in a clinic or classroom as it is in virtual early intervention. Whether I’m consulting over Zoom or talking through concerns during a check-in, I want families to walk away with something they can do today. No special tools required—just intentional listening.

In virtual sessions, it also gives us something to talk about! It helps caregivers track progress week to week, reflect on routines and play, and feel confident in their role. And when it’s time for a Parents as Teachers visit or pediatrician check-up, they can just snap a photo of the chart or bring it with them.