FAQS
Why is it called "infant" directed speech and not "child" directed speech?
While both terms appear in the literature and experiments, Infant Directed Speech (IDS) best encapsulates the time frame in which this form of speech is used. You'll notice that as your child grows and learns how to speak in a more adult-like manner, the way you interact with them speech-wise will change too and you will not be using IDS as much.
When should my baby say their first word?
Babbling, a precursor to words, typically begins between 6 and 8 months. From here, your child will most likely say their first word between 10 and 14 months. Once they say their first word, your child will start to average 1 new word a week. But remember, every child is different, and the timeline for these developmental milestones is not set in stone, so don't worry if your child is falling a little behind!
What are books that can help in the production of my child's speech? Or does reading to my child help?
Reading is an awesome way to engage verbally with your child in a fun way.
Here are some examples from a certified speech and language pathologist, Kimberly O. Scanlon:
My Toddler's First Words
My Toddler Talks
Does speaking to children in two languages affect their language development?
No way! In fact, between ages 0 and 3 years is the best time to expose your child to a second language, as the brain is in a very flexible stage. According to some research, babies can detect a language switch as early as 6 months.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/advantages_of_a_bilingual_brain
If I am concerned about my baby's language development, what steps should I take?
Remember, your child may not hit the same language developmental milestones at the same time as another child, but if you are concerned, talk to your pediatrician, who will connect you with a Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP).
Will my baby only talk in an exaggerated manner if I use Infant- Directed Speech with them?
No, your baby will not only talk in Infant-Directed Speech (IDS) if you use it with them. As your baby grows and their language skills develop, you will revert to Adult-Directed Speech (ADS) when you speak with them. They will learn that ADS is the norm. So while they will get all the benefits of IDS, it won't become their sole form of communication.
What should I do if I can't understand what my baby is telling me?
We understand that communicating with toddlers can sometimes be difficult or even frustrating. The absolute key is to be patient. It's also important to keep in mind that people communicate through both body language and verbal language, and babies are no exception. Pay attention to both! Even if you can't figure out the message, you should always respond. It's fine if your guess is wrong. It shows the child that you are paying attention, and Joint Attention is vital in children's language development. Moreover, if your response isn't what they expected, they may repeat what they were trying to tell you in a different way.
Teaching your child basic sign language can aid your child's communication with you. There is evidence that children develop motor skills earlier than communication skills. Teaching your child the sign "eat" every time you eat will help the child associate the term with the meaning.
Helpful link to learning basic asl with your baby!
https://www.thebump.com/a/how-to-teach-baby-sign-language