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At what age should my child know colours, shapes, and basic words?

Parenting Perspective

Children typically begin to identify simple colours and shapes between the ages of two and four. This timeline, however, is influenced by personality, learning environment, and how often these concepts are used in daily life. Basic words like ‘mummy’, ‘milk’, or ‘up’ are often spoken between twelve and eighteen months, while short sentences usually emerge around age three. Still, these are general patterns rather than strict deadlines.
If your child is engaging with you through eye contact, gestures, and curiosity, they are likely progressing well, even if they are not naming shapes or colours yet. The goal is to build understanding, not to meet a checklist.
Support your child’s learning gently by speaking clearly, naming objects during play, and using books, songs, or drawing to introduce concepts naturally. Repetition and joy are more effective than formal teaching at this age. When children feel emotionally connected, they absorb language and ideas more deeply. Be patient and consistent. Growth often happens in bursts and is most visible when least expected.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Taaha (20), Verse 114: ‘…and say: “O my Sustainer, increase for me (the parameters of) knowledge.”’ This prayer affirms that knowledge is a divine gift, and seeking it is both sacred and personal. Just as we are encouraged to ask for growth in understanding, we are reminded that each gain is a mercy and should not be rushed or compared.
It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 407, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: ‘Teach your children Salah when they are seven years old.’ This Hadith provides not only a milestone but also a model of gradual, structured learning. It reflects wisdom in pacing development, showing that spiritual and cognitive readiness unfold over time.
Children’s learning is not only about what they know, but about how they are guided. Encouragement, exposure, and emotional connection are more impactful than pressure. Every colour named, shape recognised, or word spoken is a moment of barakah. It reflects not only cognitive growth, but also the beauty of a heart and mind coming into awareness, guided by love and the light of divine permission.

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