Does My Child Understand More Than They Can Say? (What to Expect: Birth - 8)

Most parents know about major milestones like babbling and first words. But understanding how children develop language can help caregivers make sense of what they’re seeing and hearing at home. Language development includes two equally important areas, receptive language (what a child understands) and expressive language (how a child communicates their thoughts, needs, and ideas.)

This post walks parents through typical receptive and expressive language milestones from birth through school age, explains common concerns and misconceptions, and clarifies when it may be time to seek additional support. My goal is to provide you clear, research-informed guidance so you are an informed communication partner and advocate for your child.

Receptive vs. Expressive Language: What’s the Difference?

Receptive language refers to a child’s ability to understand words, directions, questions, and concepts. Expressive language refers to how a child communicates, whether that is through sounds, words, signs, gestures, or generated speech.

These two areas do not always develop at the same pace. Some children understand far more than they can express, while others speak frequently but struggle to follow directions or answer questions. Looking at both areas together provides a more accurate picture of development.

Birth to 12 Months

During the first year of life, language development is rooted in connection, attention, and interaction. Which is why face-to-face time with your newborn is crucial. This is the time when pre-verbal communication are developing.

Receptively, infants begin responding to sounds, voices, and their name. They show recognition of familiar people and routines and begin to understand common words such as “no,” “bye-bye,” or names of familiar objects.

Expressively, communication begins with crying, cooing, and babbling. Over time, babbling becomes more varied and intentional, with sounds used to gain attention or express wants. Gestures such as pointing, waving, or reaching are important expressive skills during this stage and are strong predictors of later language development.

12 to 24 Months

Between one and two years of age, language growth begins to accelerate.

Receptive language typically includes understanding simple directions, identifying familiar objects or people, and recognizing common routines. Children begin to understand far more than they can say and should be able to understand at least 50 words.

Expressively, first words usually emerge, followed by a growing vocabulary. Children may use single words, sound approximations, gestures, or combinations of both to communicate. They may also be able to pair two words together to communicate a thought. The focus at this stage is functional communication, not perfect clarity.

2 to 3 Years

This period is marked by significant leaps in both understanding and expression.

Receptively, children begin following two-step directions, understanding simple questions, and grasping basic concepts such as size or location. They can typically understand familiar conversations even if they cannot yet participate fully.

Expressive language expands rapidly. Children begin combining words into short phrases and sentences, using language to request, comment, and protest. Vocabulary growth is often noticeable, and communication becomes more intentional and varied.

3 to 5 Years

As children move into the preschool years, language becomes more complex and flexible.

Receptive skills include understanding longer directions, answering a wider variety of questions, and comprehending stories or conversations. Children begin to understand more abstract concepts such as time and emotions.

Expressively, sentences become longer and more grammatically complex. Children start telling short stories, explaining ideas, and asking frequent questions. Language is increasingly used for social interaction and learning.

5 to 8 Years

Language development continues into the school years, though changes are often more subtle.

Receptively, children are expected to follow multi-step directions, understand classroom language, and comprehend increasingly complex information. Difficulties at this stage may appear as trouble following lessons, answering questions, or understanding reading material.

Expressively, children use language to explain, reason, negotiate, and problem-solve. Sentences are well-formed, vocabulary is broad, and ideas are communicated clearly. Persistent difficulty expressing thoughts or organizing language can impact academic and social success.

Common Misconceptions About Language Development

Families are often told to “wait and see,” that a child will grow out of it. While variation is normal, these assumptions can delay support for children who would benefit from earlier intervention.

Language skills form the foundation for learning, behavior, and social connection. When challenges are present, addressing them sooner rather than later can make an impactful difference.

Late Talker, Language Difference, and Language Disorder: What’s the Difference?

A late talker typically shows limited expressive language but demonstrates strong understanding, minimal frustration, and effective use of gestures or other strategies to communicate.

A language difference reflects dialectal or cultural language patterns and does not require therapy unless it affects a child’s ability to participate in their community or school, or if a family desires support. As a side note, culture and primary language exposure should always be maintained. Children and parents should never be discouraged from using their home language, even when a language disorder is suspected or identified.

A language disorder is pervasive and impacts multiple areas of development. It may affect understanding, expression, learning, and behavior, often leading to frustration for both the child and caregivers.

Red Flags That Warrant Evaluation

Signs of certain “red flags” suggest that seeking an evaluation is appropriate. These include a significant gap between receptive and expressive skills, loss of previously acquired language, limited vocabulary growth, difficulty asking or answering questions, or language challenges that contribute to behavioral concerns.

Difficulties that impact participation in preschool, school, or daily routines are especially important to address.

Should You Wait or Seek an Evaluation?

When concerns arise, it is generally better to evaluate than to wait. An evaluation provides clarity and guidance, even if therapy is not ultimately recommended. Early intervention remains one of the most effective ways to support language development.

Want a Clearer Picture of Your Child’s Language Development?

You can download my receptive and expressive language milestone guide for quick reference, explore practical at-home language strategies in my related blog post, or schedule a consultation with The Next Page Speech Therapy if you have any concerns.

Having the right information can help you feel confident as you monitor your child’s development and decide on next steps.