Babies typically start saying their first words sometime between 12 and 18 months of age.
Early Communication Stages
While the first recognizable words usually appear around the 12-18 month mark, communication development begins much earlier. Here's a breakdown of early vocalizations:
-
Birth to 3 Months: Babies start with basic sounds, including:
- Smiling
- Cooing
-
After 3 Months: Babies will begin to experiment with a wider range of sounds. This stage is crucial in preparing them for verbal communication.
First Words and Beyond
Here's a simple timeline:
| Age Range | Communication Milestones |
|---|---|
| Birth - 3 months | Basic sounds like smiling and cooing. |
| 12 - 18 months | Typically says their first word. |
Practical Insights
- Individual Differences: Every baby develops at their own pace. Some might say words earlier or later than this window.
- Encouragement: Parents can encourage communication by talking, singing, and reading to their babies regularly.
- Consult Professionals: If you have concerns about your child's speech development, consult a pediatrician or speech therapist.
Examples of First Words
Common first words often include:
- Mama
- Dada
- Bye-bye
- Names of familiar objects
These examples offer an understanding of the type of words babies commonly use.
