By the age of 18 months, a child should:

• Point to desired objects.
• Say "Mama" for Mommy or "Dada" for Daddy.
• Say three words.

• Say 10 words.
• Use two-word sentences.

• Name a few pictures of familiar objects.
• Speak clearly 80 percent of the time.
• Pronounce b, p, m, t, w and d.

• Use three- to four-word sentences.
• Use action words.
• Use adjectives.
• Speak clearly 90 percent of the time.

To keep conversations flowing, Brenda Hussey-Gardner, Ph.D., assistant professor in the department of pediatrics at the University of Maryland Hospital for Children in Baltimore, suggests the following simple tactics:

• Talk with your child every day.
• Use simple and clear speech, not baby talk.
• Discuss topics that interest the child.
• Show enthusiasm for your child's efforts, making him feel proud of his successes and attempts.
• Read to your child each day.
• Sing nursery rhymes with your child.
• Ask your child questions, and give him ample time to respond.