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Free tool · for parents

Milestone checklist

Choose your child's age band, tick what they already do, and read the guidance. Milestones are the age by which about three out of four children have the skill, so a missing item or two is common. The red-flag items are the ones clinicians use to decide when to look closer.

This tool is general information for families and students. It is not a screening or diagnostic tool, does not give individual advice, and is not a substitute for an assessment by a registered speech-language pathologist. If you are worried about your child's communication, Ontario families can self-refer to their local Preschool Speech and Language Program at no cost.

Sources: ASHA Communication Milestones (2023); Speech-Language & Audiology Canada statement on milestones (Oct 2024); SickKids AboutKidsHealth: Speech and language development 0 to 3

Frequently asked questions

My child is missing one milestone. Should I worry?
Usually not. Milestones are the age by which about three-quarters of children have a skill, so a quarter of typically developing children reach any given one a little later. Several missing items, or any red flag, is a better reason to ask.
Is this a screening tool?
No. It is an organized version of published milestone lists so you can see where your child is. Screening and diagnosis require a registered speech-language pathologist, who will also check hearing.
Where do these milestones come from?
The main source is the 2023 ASHA communication milestones, which Speech-Language and Audiology Canada recommended Canadian clinicians adopt in October 2024. Word counts and intelligibility figures come from SickKids AboutKidsHealth, adapted from the Toronto Preschool Speech and Language program.
What should I do if several are missing?
In Ontario, children who have not started school can be referred by their parents directly to the free Preschool Speech and Language Program. Ask your family doctor for a hearing test at the same time. School-aged children can be referred through the school.

Go further

Milestones by age (full guide) When to see a speech-language pathologist Count your toddler's words Find free services in Ontario

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Children not yet in school can self-refer to the Preschool Speech and Language Program. No doctor, no fee.

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