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Communication Milestones: 10-12 Years

Every child grows and develops in their own unique way and at their own pace.

 

Milestones are simply helpful guidelines, and it’s okay if your child reaches them a little earlier or later than others.

 

If you have questions or just want reassurance, we’re here for you—please feel free to reach out.

10-12 Years

Speech Fluency: 

  • Disfluent less than 10% of the time

  • Uses fillers (“um”, “uh”)

Articulation:

  • Speech is 100% intelligible

  • Accurately produces all speech sounds

Speaking & Expressive Language:

  • Uses specific and abstract vocabulary (idioms, sarcasm, metaphors, irony)

  • Defines words using categories & synonyms

  • Uses root words, prefixes, and suffixes

  • Sentences are complex & grammatically accurate

  • Organizes and presents information clearly

Listening & Understanding: 

  • Understands abstract concepts; can follow hypothetical or non-literal ideas

  • Recognizes multiple meanings of words; chooses the correct one based on context

  • Identifies main ideas, themes, and supporting details in stories and informational texts

Literacy Skills: 

  • Plans writing with clear beginning/middle/end

  • Organizes writing with main ideas & details

  • Uses varied sentence structures and advanced vocabulary

  • Revises for clarity, grammar, spelling, & punctuation

Social Communication & Play:

  • Recognizes when others misunderstand & clarifies

  • Understands others’ perspectives and intentions

  • Uses sarcasm & humor appropriately

  • Navigates friendships, peer pressure, conflict

  • Adjusts tone, formality, & vocabulary based on listener and context

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