One of the most fascinating parts of infant development is language - witnessing your baby discover his or her own unique voice can be incredibly rewarding.
Language Milestones
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First month:
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Second month:
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Third month:
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Fourth month:
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Fifth month:
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Sixth month:
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Babies first communicate by crying. Then they learn to make sounds and smile. This is how they "talk." Eventually they learn to use words, but even before then, communication is a two way street - talk to your baby when your baby "talks" to you.
Play and Activity
As your baby learns to talk, be sure to talk back. Comfort your child with a soothing voice and gentle words. And mimic any sounds your baby makes - this is a fun way to encourage your baby to make even more sounds.
Here are some other tips for fostering healthy language development:
- Talk to your baby using the language in which you feel most comfortable.
- Hum to your child.
- Sing nursery rhymes and songs.
- Read and tell stories to your baby, it's never too early to start.
- Play games (peek a boo, imitating sounds your baby makes, gentle tickling, shaking toys, etc.).
- Talk to your baby about what you are doing (bathing, diapering, nursing, etc.).
- Call your baby by name.
- Make sure your baby can see your face when you are speaking.
- Talk out loud about what you think your baby is trying to tell you with his coos, cries, and babbles.
Read to Your Baby
It’s never too early to read to your baby. Even newborns will benefit from listening to books. Hearing your words helps your baby develop language.
Resources & Links:
Leap BC’s guide Move with Me from Birth to Three
HealthLink BC Language Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months
