In their first year, babies listen to language, recognize the sounds you use, and begin imitating sounds and words. Many babies say their first word around their first birthday, and there are things you can do to support them!

One big thing babies learn about in the first year is the back-and-forth way people interact with each other. Try to see how many back-and-forth interactions you can get with baby throughout the day. You might be surprised at how many circles of interaction you can share. If baby says "mmm," look in baby's eyes, repeat it, add to it, "mmmmm, mama, mmmmm, mama" and wait 5-10 seconds for baby to say something back. You can repeat what you said, give baby some loving touches, and wait again.

When you talk, then pause and look at baby like you're waiting for them to do something, it shows baby how language works. Baby might say a sound, might gesture with their hands or feet, or might gaze at something and look back at you. All of these actions count! That's baby communicating with you, give 'em some lovin' and communicate back for another circle!

As babies get older, their attention spans increase and they can share more circles of communication. Work on these circles every day and you'll be helping baby to make brain connections that support language development. By working on these circles everyday, you're building the foundation for all future learning. Nice work!