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Parents usually don’t have to be prompted to talk to their little baby. After all, everything about the bundle of joy probably grabs your attention. The way they look when they are asleep, the sounds they make and their excited expression when they see your face, you can’t help but engage with them. But did you know that talking to your baby will help them learn how to talk? We know, sometimes it can be hard to figure out what to say to them when all they do is stare at you or the ceiling. And it’s even harder to find ways to communicate with them. But with a few tips and some guidance, this will soon become second nature to you. So, if you’re wondering how to encourage your infant to talk and want to find ways to communicate with them easily, this is the article for you. Keep reading!
How Do Babies Communicate In Their First Month?
It’s a common misconception that all babies do is eat, sleep and poop. Yes, they do do these things, but your little one is also soaking in their environment. They are observant of what is going on around them and listen to what is being said to them. Even if it doesn’t look like they are paying attention to anything at all. Your baby will slowly start to react to the things you say by either intently looking at you or smiling and frowning when you mention certain words. However, a baby’s cry is the main way they get their needs met. Because it attracts the most attention and is efficient. But with time, your little one will develop and learn to communicate in more sophisticated ways.
How To Encourage Early Talking Skills?
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It’s easier to talk to your baby once they are born if you have been talking to them throughout your pregnancy. Once they have arrived, listen for your baby to make little noises that don’t sound like their usual cries. These noises are their early attempts to talk and gain your care and attention. You can encourage them to keep making them by imitating these sounds. Your baby’s attempts at using their mouth signals their first steps of learning to talk. It’s also important to take notice when your baby is crying and respond to them.
You are not spoiling your child by catering to their needs, no matter what anyone else says. Instead, focus your energy on figuring out why they are crying and what they are experiencing. Be gentle with them when you are tending to them. This will ensure that they understand that you want to care for them. And this will make them want to communicate with you more. Keep in mind that your baby seeks a connection with you. So hold them close, mimic their facial movements and support their learning at every stage.
Tell Your Baby Stories
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Humans have found numerous ways to communicate with each other, but storytelling has been an important part of how we relay information and stay connected to one’s own culture and traditions. So, telling your baby stories as a way to start talking to them is a great idea. You can start by reading them a few simple books with a lot of pictures to keep them engaged. Or you could make up your own stories to tell them while you change a diaper or give them a quick bath. You can also sing songs and recite easy nursery rhymes. Make sure to include some actions to make it even more fun. Be animated and use your hands and face to link words with meanings. This way your baby will start to recognise familiar pictures, the intonation of your voice and your tone.
Tips For When Your Talking To The Baby
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Be mindful of other distractions that may garner their attention around the house. For example, if you’ve got the music playing at full volume or the TV is on in the background it might make it harder for your little one to focus on you when you are talking to them. So, eliminate these distractions when you are trying to communicate with them. Try to be natural when you are talking to your little one. If it doesn’t come easily, it’s okay. Like your baby, you are allowed to take some time to learn. And accept that there will be times when your baby would rather not engage with you. But when they are, pause and let them attempt to speak to you as well. And remember, your conversations don’t have to be long. Just a couple of lines throughout the day will do during the early months.
Talking to your baby is great for them. But just like anything else, you might take a while to get the hang of it. So, be patient with yourself and take it one step at a time!
