At 15 months old, it's normal for some children to still be developing their language skills and not yet saying many words. Each child develops at their own pace, and there is a wide range of normal development when it comes to speech and language milestones.
There could be several reasons why your 15-month-old cries when you ask him to say "mama" or any other words:
Frustration: Your child might feel frustrated that they are unable to communicate their needs and desires effectively. Crying could be their way of expressing this frustration.
Lack of Readiness: Not all children are ready to say words at the same age. Language development is a gradual process, and some children may start speaking later than others.
Shyness or Social Anxiety: Some children may be more reserved or shy in their interactions, and being asked to say something specific might make them uncomfortable or anxious.
Attention-Seeking: Crying can be a way for a child to get attention or a response from their caregiver. They might have noticed that crying elicits a reaction from you, and they continue to do so.
Communication Difficulties: It's possible that your child is experiencing some difficulty with speech or language development, making it challenging for them to say words.
If you are concerned about your child's language development, consider the following steps:
Observe and Encourage: Keep an eye on your child's language development and encourage communication in other ways, such as gestures, pointing, and using simple sign language.
Interact and Engage: Engage in conversations with your child, even if they are not yet speaking. Respond to their attempts at communication, whether it's through sounds, babbling, or pointing.
Read and Talk: Read books to your child and talk to them throughout the day. Exposure to language-rich environments can aid language development.
Play and Imitate: Engage in interactive play with your child, imitating sounds and actions. This can encourage them to imitate you and try to produce sounds.
Consult a Professional: If you remain concerned about your child's language development or if they show other signs of developmental delays, consider seeking advice from a pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist.
Remember, every child is unique, and developmental milestones can vary. It's essential to provide a supportive and encouraging environment for your child's language development, while also being patient and understanding of their individual pace.