Another focus can be on your child’s sound development, babies start with cooing, then move on to babbling. Babbling is actually a stepping stone to words! There are 4 distinct types progressing to a child’s first words.
There are 80 muscles that control the vocal tract and it takes a year or more to coordinate it all! So not an easy feat! Studies with 9 month olds who are still using all 4 types of babbling showed significant increases in their output when mothers were instructed to caress or touch their babies when they babble. Not only did babies babble more, they demonstrated much more complex babbling following that social engagement and interaction.
Focusing on other ways of communication can also support your child’s development of early speech. This can include modeling simple sign language when modeling words. Research has long supported the use of early sign language to support communication and speech development.
Babbling Resources
- Learn about the significance of early babbling stages
- Find out how babbling develops into first words
Concerns?
If you have concerns about your child’s communication development, we encourage you to consult your pediatrician or developmental specialist.
Questions?
Have questions or want more information? Contact your Summit DD contact for additional support or resources on sleep safety for your little one.
