Which example indicates a language delay in a 36-month-old child?

Which example indicates a language delay in a 36-month-old child?

• A. A child who can say 50 words
• B. A child who combines two- to three-word phrases
• C. A child with an oral expression vocabulary of 20 words
• D. A child who can answer simple questions

Answer: (C)

A child with an oral expression vocabulary of 20 words at 36 months demonstrates a significant language delay. By this age, children typically have a much larger expressive vocabulary, often in the range of 200 to 1,000 words, and are usually able to form sentences with two to three words. The expected development for a 36-month-old includes the ability to combine words into phrases and answer simple questions. Therefore, having only 20 words indicates that the child is falling behind the developmental milestones for language acquisition at this age. This can be cause for concern and may require further assessment and support to aid in the child's language development.

A child with an oral expression vocabulary of 20 words at 36 months demonstrates a significant language delay. By this age, children typically have a much larger expressive vocabulary, often in the range of 200 to 1,000 words, and are usually able to form sentences with two to three words. The expected development for a 36-month-old includes the ability to combine words into phrases and answer simple questions. Therefore, having only 20 words indicates that the child is falling behind the developmental milestones for language acquisition at this age. This can be cause for concern and may require further assessment and support to aid in the child's language development.