Babies begin their journey to becoming chatty individuals right from birth! They usually respond to loud sounds by three months and coo with delight. Around 4-6 months, they start making consonant sounds and showing more reactions to communication. By 7-9 months, expect a variety of sounds and recognition of keywords. The magic happens between 10-12 months when they use words meaningfully, like calling you mom or dad. And by the age of 2, toddlers typically expand their vocabulary, use phrases, follow directions, and enjoy stories.

Catching any early hiccups in communication development is key because the brain is most receptive to learning and making changes before age 3. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with delays, helping them overcome behavior, learning, reading, and social interaction challenges. It's all about setting them up for success as they grow.

Engage in daily activities that promote chatter and understanding. Talk and describe what you're doing, ask questions, and listen to your child's attempts to communicate. Reading together, singing songs, and playing games that encourage following directions or pretend play are fantastic ways to nurture their budding skills. And remember, every word and gesture you use is a learning opportunity for them.

If you suspect a delay, the first step is to consult with a pediatrician. They can guide you to certified audiologists or speech/language pathologists who specialize in helping children enhance their communication skills. Remember, the sooner you seek help, the better the chances are for improvement.

Yes, delays in communication and language development can be early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Seeking an evaluation if you have concerns about your child's development is crucial. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly increase the likelihood of improvement in communication skills and overall development.

Think of serving and return interactions as a fun game of catch with communication. When a child babbles, gestures, or looks at something, responding to their "serve" with attention and engagement "returns" the interaction. This back-and-forth play nurtures brain development and communication skills, encouraging them to keep learning and interacting.