How many words should an 18 month old girl speak?

It's tricky to give a hard number for how many words an 18-month-old should be speaking. Every child develops at their own pace, and there's a wide range of what's considered "normal."

Here's what's important to keep in mind:

* Average: While some 18-month-olds may have a vocabulary of 20-50 words, others might be closer to 10-15.

* Beyond words: Pay attention to other communication skills like pointing, gesturing, and understanding simple instructions.

* Individual differences: Some babies are naturally more verbal, while others focus on other areas like motor skills first.

* Early intervention: If you have any concerns about your child's speech development, it's best to talk to your pediatrician. They can assess your child's progress and provide guidance if needed.

Instead of focusing on a specific number, look for these signs of language development:

* Imitating sounds and words: Does your child copy sounds you make, like "mama" or "dada"?

* Using single words: Does she say words like "ball," "milk," or "up"?

* Understanding simple requests: Does she respond to commands like "come here" or "give me the toy"?

* Using gestures: Does she point to things she wants or use gestures like waving goodbye?

Remember: Early intervention is key! If you have any concerns, speak to your pediatrician. They can help you understand your child's development and offer appropriate support.