How long did it take for your child to start talking?

My son says about 10 words, but not consistently, as in SOMETIMES he'll say the word after you coach him to say it. He's almost 2 (20 months) and his pediatrician wanted him to have speech therapy at 18 months if he had not hit 10 words. He had by that time, but if he hadn't they would have had therapists actually come to our house and work with him. I'm not sure why your pediatrician would not have already advised that, but if you ask them about it, I think they would probably send someone out to help you. Most insurances pay for this service. My son usually only babbles like your son. The only words he says consistently is "drink, dada, baby, and tickle" He tries to tell you things, but it just doesn't seem to happen. If theres not a big improvement by the time he is 2, they want to do the therapy. Boys usually get a late start in speech where they want to investigate, where girls are more content to sit back and talk about stuff. Best of luck to both of you!