Receptive Language Development Guide
The ability to understand language develops over time and children generally understand more words than they can say.
Children start by understanding single words and looking for clues from the situation.
They then develop their ability to understand two- and three-word phrases and simple instructions.
The understanding of some questions can be harder and takes time to develop.
1 Year
Understands simple naming words e.g. body parts
Recognises and points to familiar objects
2 Years
Understands early action words e.g. cry, jump, want
Can follow short instructions e.g. brush dolly’s hair
Understands simple questions e.g ‘where’s mummy’s car?’
3-4 Years
Understands longer instructions
Understands ‘who, ‘where’, ‘what’ questions
Understands colour, number and time related words
4-5 Years
Understands conversations
Understands ‘why’ questions
Understands more complicated language e.g. behind, above, first, last