Babies and speech
Pre-linguistic stage:
This stage is from birth to around 12-13 months. Babies need to tune in to language. To be able to do this, they must spend time with their main carer and/or key worker.
Birth- 2 months: uses vocalisations to express feelings and needs, and will turn head toward the source of a noise.
2-6 months: responds with babbling and cooing, and shows feelings through facial expressions.
7-8 months: uses repeated sounds such as 'da da,' 'ba ba' to respond to adult interaction.
10+ months: understands around 20 words and will point to objects when asked.
Interaction with babies:
Drawing babies' attention- can be gained by getting close and facing them, and minimising any distractions. Using commentary on what is happening helps babies to focus and engage with the adult.
Facial expressions- before language, babies learn to 'read' and copy facial expressions. They will be drawn to the movements of mouths, eyes and eyebrows, and communicate their own feelings through their face.
Gestures- pointing to objects when naming helps babies to understand words before they can say them. Gestures help babies to focus on objects, people or actions.
Eye contact- gaining eye contact is critical for effective communication with babies. They focus on the sounds and facial expressions and will respond with sounds even before they can say words.
Parentese:
This style of language, used by mothers and fathers, was observed by researchers in the 1970s.
Speech patterns in parentese involve-
Simplified language
Higher pitched sounds
Repetition
Early language:
Planning and using opportunities for communicating with babies throughout the day.
Interacting socially to encourage babies to use sounds and gestures.
Acting as the key person for a baby to build a strong attachment.