Child Development Associate (CDA) Child Care Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Resource to Master Your Certification!

Telegraphic speech is characterized by the use of short, concise phrases that typically consist of two to three words. This form of speech captures the essential meaning without extraneous words, much like sending a telegram where only the most crucial information is conveyed. For instance, a child might say "want cookie" instead of a more complete sentence like "I want a cookie."

While the phrases in telegraphic speech can sometimes be slightly longer, they typically do not reach four words. Hence, stating that telegraphic speech consists of four-word phrases is inaccurate. This distinction is important in understanding language development in young children, as it illustrates their ability to communicate effectively using limited vocabulary as they learn to speak.