Receptive language development (the ability to comprehend language) usually develops faster than expressive language (the
ability to communicate). Two different styles of language development are recognized. In referential language development,
children first speak single words and then join words together, first into two-word sentences and then into three-word sentences.
In expressive language development, children first speak in long unintelligible babbles that mimic the cadence and rhythm
of adult speech. Typically developing children use a combination of these styles. Most children will use whatever abilities
they have to try to communicate. Lack of interest in communication should be discussed with the pediatrician.