He remains silent when other children are already reciting poems?
Or does he speak, but so indistinctly that even grandma doesn’t understand?
Don't rush to write everything off as "individual development." There are signs that will clearly indicate whether it's time to sound the alarm.
For example, by the age of two, a child should be able to form simple phrases like "Give me a drink" or "Mom, come." If he only moans and points, that's a reason to act.
But don't panic: the problem can often be solved with games. Take a mirror and make faces so that he imitates the movements of your lips. Lay out cards with animals and ask: "Show me who says 'moo'."
Or sing children's songs together, deliberately "forgetting" the words: "Let them run awkwardly..." - and wait until he shouts "pedestrians!" Another way is "misunderstanding".
If the child reaches for the water and moans, say: “I don’t understand what you want. Say ‘drink.’” Don’t push, but repeat the word persistently.
Here's what you shouldn't do: coo, distort sounds ("Look at that beep!") or ignore attempts to speak. If there's no progress after a month of playing, consult a specialist - early intervention works wonders.
