Finding the Spark: Helping Late Talkers Learn Through Everyday Moments
- Nikki McRory, MA CCC-SLP, BCBA
- Nov 10
- 4 min read
You wait for the words.The “Mama.” The “ball.” The “more.”And when they don’t come as quickly as you expected, it’s natural to feel worried — or even wonder if you’re doing enough.
As a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I’ve sat with countless parents in that same place of uncertainty. You know your child has so much to say, but the words just aren’t coming yet. The good news is that language learning starts long before a child speaks — and some of the most powerful opportunities to spark communication are already happening in your daily routines.
Understanding “Late Talking”
Every child develops at their own pace, but by around 18 months most children are using a handful of words, and by two years they’re often putting simple words together. When a child isn’t yet using words — or isn’t using as many as expected — we sometimes describe them as a late talker.
Being a late talker doesn’t automatically mean that something is “wrong.” Some children simply need more time, while others may benefit from extra support to build the skills that lead to speech — things like attention, imitation, joint engagement, and play. The key is to notice progress in how your child connects, responds, and communicates in ways beyond words.
I often remind parents that communication is much more than talking — it’s every smile, gesture, gaze, and shared laugh that builds the foundation for language.
The Power of Connection Over Correction
When a child is a late talker, it’s easy to focus on what isn’t happening yet — counting words or comparing to developmental charts. But the real magic happens when we shift our attention toward connection.
Instead of directing or prompting, try slowing down and following your child’s lead. Join in their play. Imitate their sounds. Wait for them to take a turn, even if it’s just a look or a giggle. Those simple exchanges teach your child that their communication — in whatever form it takes right now — has power and meaning.
Language grows best in moments that feel joyful, safe, and connected. The science supports this: children learn to communicate most effectively when they’re emotionally engaged, not pressured. When we connect first, communication naturally follows.
How Everyday Routines Build Language
You don’t need flashcards, worksheets, or long practice sessions to help your child talk. You already have everything you need — because your everyday moments are filled with opportunities for language learning.
When you hand your child a snack, pause and wait for a look, gesture, or sound before giving it.When you play with bubbles, repeat fun action words like “pop!” or “up!”When you read together, point, label, and respond to what catches your child’s attention.
Each of these simple moments teaches the rhythm of conversation: turn-taking, listening, and responding. They also expose your child to words in meaningful, real-life contexts. This kind of naturalistic learning builds understanding long before words emerge — and it makes communication feel fun.
Why I Created the Everyday Sparks Course
After years of coaching families, I realized that most parents already have the heart and instinct for connection — they just need a little guidance on how to turn those ordinary moments into language-building opportunities.
That’s what inspired me to create Everyday Sparks, a caregiver-focused course designed especially for parents of late talkers. It’s not a replacement for therapy — it’s a roadmap to help you feel more confident supporting your child between sessions or even before therapy begins.
Through short, practical video lessons, I walk you through simple strategies that can be woven into your day — things like building joint attention, expanding play, encouraging imitation, and creating meaningful back-and-forth interactions. The best part? You don’t have to set aside extra time or buy special materials. You can learn how to support communication while doing what you already do every day.
When to Seek Support
If you’re wondering whether your child might benefit from professional guidance, here are a few general signs to look for:
By 12 months, your child isn’t babbling or responding to their name.
By 18 months, they use few or no words.
By 24 months, they aren’t combining words or imitating simple phrases.
Your child rarely makes eye contact, gestures, or uses facial expressions to connect.
You notice frustration or frequent meltdowns when they can’t express themselves.
Every child is different, and milestones are just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re unsure, trust your instincts — you know your child best. A consultation with a pediatric speech-language pathologist can help you better understand what’s typical and what kind of support might help your child thrive.
Small Sparks Make Big Changes
I’ve seen firsthand how small, consistent changes can create remarkable growth. A parent learning to pause just two seconds longer. A caregiver realizing that repeating a favorite word during play turns a moment into connection. A family discovering that their child is communicating — just in a different way.
Every spark of progress matters. And when you learn to recognize and build on those sparks, you begin to see how capable your child really is.
A Final Word of Encouragement
If your child isn’t talking yet — or if their words are coming slowly — please know that you are not alone, and you are not behind. There’s so much you can do right now to nurture your child’s communication.
You don’t need to wait for therapy to start to make a difference. The way you play, respond, and connect each day is already teaching your child the language of relationships and communication.
That’s what Everyday Sparks is all about — helping you discover the science and the simplicity behind those everyday interactions, and giving you the confidence to know that you are enough.
Because every child has a spark inside them. Sometimes, all they need is a little help to let it shine.
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