10 Cues that lead to the first word

As your child turns one, there will be some indications that will  tell you if your child is coming closer to saying that first elusive word (“mama” – hopefully!). Knowing these indicators will help you support your child’s efforts. After all, talking is a big milestone and constant encouragement from a parent definitely helps the child form her first words – usually around 18 months. Our blogger Sugandha Tiwari brings you 10 cues that will tell you that the speech mission is well on track! 

From the first year till she turns three, you will observe a massive change in both – the way your child expresses and the way your child responds. What is important to know is that ‘receptive’ language develops much faster than ‘expressive’. It is important to know that different children develop and acquire milestones at their own pace - some may be ahead of the times while some may take time – and the below-mentioned signs are simply indicative of some progress being made. Here are the 10 signs that show the development of language in your child’s mind: 

10 Signs that indicate language development

Yes, external influences do help in speech development. For instance, family environment is a big contributor towards speech development. So are playmates! If you feel it’s taking time, do not panic and run a check. Also keep a lookout for these below-mentioned signs and if you do spot something, seek advice from specialists working in the field of speech and hearing, before jumping to any conclusion:

See a doctor if… 

• Your child appears not to hear and respond to different sounds in the environment by 3 months
• Your child does not give any response to what others ask her by 6 months
• Your child does not respond to his own name by 4 months
• Your child does not seem to make an eye contact by two years 
• Your child is noticeably different in his communications as compared to other children in the same age range.

In most cases, it turns out that the child is simply taking her own sweet time – so it’s best to stay relaxed and allow your child to complete her mission in her time. 

Do you have any story around how your toddler formed his or her first word? If yes, please do share with us in the comments section below. We would love to hear it. Happy parenting!