Late Talkers
First Words Checklist
Track common first words by category with this free parent checklist. See useful word groups and what to model next.
Next useful category to model: People. Choose one or two words and repeat them in a real routine. Most children are using around fifty words by about two years old, across categories like these, and the spread matters as much as the number.
How to use this tool
- Check words your child uses spontaneously.
- Notice which categories are strongest.
- Pick five useful words to model this week.
- Repeat the checklist monthly to see growth.
Why parents use it
Shows vocabulary breadth, not only a total count.
Built from the words British toddlers actually say first, not a generic list.
Helps parents choose useful next words.
Creates better notes for appointments.
SpeechBarn tools are educational and support at-home practice. They do not diagnose, treat, or replace care from a speech and language therapist.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a first word?
A word usually counts when your child uses it consistently and meaningfully, even if pronunciation is not perfect.
Where do these words come from?
They are the words most commonly reported for British children aged 18 to 25 months, taken from Oxford CDI data in Wordbank, the open research repository of early vocabulary. The “actions” group is different: those are the six words SpeechBarn teaches, chosen because they do the most work in a toddler’s day.
Is this a test?
No. It is a tracker, not a screening tool. It is far too short to measure a vocabulary, and a word missing from it is not a problem. If you are worried, a health visitor or speech and language therapist is the right next step.
Do animal sounds count?
Often yes, if they are used meaningfully. Bring examples to an SLT if you are unsure.
Should I track signs too?
Yes. Gestures and signs are communication and can support spoken language development.
How to Help a Toddler Talk
Late Talker Activities: 12 Games to Play at Home
Speech Milestones Checklist