A typical 16-month-old child should be saying at least 15 different words.
While vocabulary development varies from child to child, there are some general expectations for a 16-month-old's expressive language (the words they actively use). Keep in mind that receptive language (what they understand) is often much larger than their expressive vocabulary.
Expected Vocabulary
A 16-month-old should ideally be using around 15 words. This is a guideline, and some children may use more or fewer words and still be within a normal range. If you have concerns, consult with your pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist.
Common Words for 16-Month-Olds
Here are some common words you might expect a 16-month-old to say:
- Mama
- Dada
- Papa
- Hi
- Bye
- Go
- No
- Baba (bottle)
- Baby
- Night-night
- More
- Me
- Names of familiar people (e.g., "Grandma," "Auntie")
- Names of pets (e.g., "Dog," "Cat")
- Names of favorite toys or objects (e.g., "Ball," "Car")
Understanding vs. Speaking
It's important to remember that a 16-month-old likely understands many more words than they can actually say. They may follow simple instructions ("Give me the ball") and point to familiar objects when asked.
When to Be Concerned
If a 16-month-old is not saying any words or doesn't seem to understand simple instructions, it's a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. Early intervention can be very helpful for children who are experiencing language delays.
Fostering Language Development
You can encourage your child's language development by:
- Talking to them frequently
- Reading to them regularly
- Naming objects and actions
- Responding to their attempts to communicate
- Playing with them and engaging in interactive games
In summary, a 16-month-old typically uses around 15 words, understanding significantly more. Common words include "Mama," "Dada," and names of familiar objects. If you have concerns about your child's language development, consult a professional.
