Hello XXXXXXX

Thanks for posting the query.

At 2 1/2 yr a child should use atleast 50 words in his vocabulary, should be able to point to known objects like fan, ball or body parts and should understand simple instructions like no, wear your shoe, go to daddy, etc.should speak two word phrases like" cat sits"dog bark".

If he can do so in any language, malayalam or english or any other language he is doing fine.

If he is not speaking but understand s and follows instructions well and has no other milestone delays like in walking, fine motor skills, then he might be a late bloomer who wil cope up by the time he is three year old.

But if he has problem in understanding and expressions also he needs to be evaluated by a speech pathologist and therapist..

Considering that he was premature born baby, there is a risk of late development of speech but
When they develop speech they are as normal as other children.

So I would advise you to consult your childs pediatrician first who can assess his development in general and if needed refer you for more detailed evaluation.

You neednot worry, as I mentioned earlier that only spoken words are not important, understanding and expressions are important part of development and if he is normal in that he will most likely learn to speak soon. Yet his doctor wil be a better person to judge than you or me.

So feel free to discuss it in details with your pediatrician for relieving your doubts.

Hope I have answered your query.

I'll be available for any follow up queries.

Regards

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