2 to 3 Years
Understanding and Hearing

• Understands differences in meaning ("go-stop," "in," "big-little").
• Notices sounds (telephone ringing, television sounds, knocking at the door).
• Follows two requests ("Get the book and put it on the table.").

Talking

• Has a word for almost everything.
• Uses two-three-word "sentences" to talk about and ask for things.
• Speech is understood by familiar listeners most of the time.
   

3 to 4 Years
Understanding and Hearing

• Hears you when you call from another room.
• Hears television or radio at the same loudness level as other family members.
• Understands simple, "who," "what," "where" questions. 
  

Talking

• Talks about activities at school or at friends' homes.           
• Usually talks easily without repeating syllables or words.
• People outside family usually understand child's speech.
• Uses many sentences with four or more words.