Babies understand the general meaning of what you’re saying long before they can speak clearly. They take in emotional tones as well. With your undivided attention, support your infant’s early attempts to communicate with you: Instead of averting your eyes, interrupting, or talking to someone else, pay attention to your infant as they squeal and giggle.
Be patient as you try to interpret your baby’s nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and gurgling or babbling sounds that could indicate either joy or frustration. Give your baby plenty of loving attention so they can communicate with you even when you’re busy with other things.
Talking to a baby should always be a two-way street. You’ll convey a crucial message to your baby by mimicking them: you care about what they are trying to say and how they are feeling. Talk back and forth to your baby in baby talk to teach them how adult conversations work. Replicate the baby’s cries, such as “ba-ba” or “goo-goo,” then listen for another sound before repeating it back. Even if you don’t understand what your baby is trying to say, try your best to respond.
