Skip to the content
Peabody ParentsTalk, play, read and grow, from day one

When do toddlers put two words together?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Says at least two words together, like “More milk.”” by 2 years, and two or more words with an action word, like “Doggie run,” by 30 months. Most children (75% or more) do these by those ages. If your child isn't putting two words together by 2 years, talk with your child's doctor.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
2 yearsSays at least two words together, like “More milk.”Your toddler at 24 months
30 monthsSays two or more words together, with one action word, like “Doggie run”Your toddler at 30 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (2 years, 30 months), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 2 years” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 2 years” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

"More milk." "Daddy go." "Big truck." Short, and full of meaning.

What helps

  • Add one word to what your child says: "Car" becomes "Red car!" or "Car go!"
  • Give choices: "Ball or book?" so they practice the words.
  • Talk about what's happening while it happens: "Dog running! Fast dog!"

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your child isn't doing this by 2 years, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources