My #1 is 21 months now and has not started talking. Still uses baby language like mum-mum (eat), though she's able to call papa, name out some animals but many elders are telling me that she's should start to talk by this age. Any idea how do I get her to express herself the correct way? I tried letting her watch videos on YouTube but doesn't help.

For both my children, my hub and I do not baby talk to them. It is important for their speech development. Encourage and affirm her to express himself and talk when she does. It is often seen that gals are able to speak well and better than the boys. But I dont see an issue as she is able to talk and name some objects. I will be concerned if she doesn't talk at all. If u are concerned, u can go to polyclinic and get the doctor to write a letter of referral to KKH speech therapist for further checks. However, I do have a friend whose boy speaks only at 3 yo and that is very late already. All child is different, early detection is good.