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Do babies understand when we talk to them? |
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| A. |
Most people, especially children understand more (receptive language) than they can say (expressive language).
Babies may not understand the meaning of our words at first, but they grasp our meaning from our tone of voice
and the situation. Soothing words usually calm an upset baby, especially if we are also meeting their need; for
instance speaking reassuringly to baby as you pick them up and feed them. Talk often while you are bathing, feeding
or changing your baby. Baby is learning about sounds and how they become words - these are the building blocks to learning language.
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If you are concerned about whether your baby is understanding your language, tone of voice and facial expressions you can call the
Information Line to discuss your concerns and questions
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| Q. |
Can a parent tell whether a child's speech is developing well? |
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| A. |
Usually parents know their child best, but sometimes it feels like you're "too close to the forest to see the
tree". Since you talk and listen to your child more than anyone else, you are the best one to
determine where they are at in the development of speech and language. If you wonder whether your child
is on track in this area, feel free to call the Information Line and discuss your concerns and questions or
download a copy of tykeTALK’s Communication Checklist.
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