Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

How many words should a 12-month-old child typically have in their vocabulary?

1. 1-2 words

2. 5 words

3. 20 words

4. 50 words

The correct answer is: 5 words

At 12 months of age, a child typically has a vocabulary that includes around 1 to 5 words. This developmental milestone reflects a significant stage in language acquisition, where infants begin to understand and utilize words as tools for communication, even if they primarily rely on non-verbal cues prior to this stage. The ability to say a few recognizable words such as "mama," "dada," or simple nouns demonstrates cognitive development and social interaction skills. While some children may exhibit a broader vocabulary, the general expectation falls within this range, emphasizing the growing connection between early language development and the child’s social environment. As children age, their vocabulary typically expands rapidly, but the measurement at 12 months centers on a foundational understanding of language that is just beginning to develop. This understanding serves as a groundwork for further language skills and will lead to more complex speech and communication as they continue to grow.