12-18 Months: Baby Talk -- Observation Record

How does the baby show her understanding of words and gestures?

Babies understand many more words and phrases than they are able to say. They begin to learn the meanings of words they hear repeated often. If daily routines such as sleeping and eating are fairly consistent and regular, babies begin to recognize the words that go along with these activities.

The baby might do one or more of the following:

• Know names–look around for the family pet when she hears someone call its name.
• Make the connection–look up at the sky when someone points and says, "See the airplane?"
• Do what you say–take her hand away when told, "Don't touch that flower!"
• Show what she knows–point to familiar body parts when asked where they are.
• Follow simple directions–respond when you point and say, "Bring me the book, please."

How does this baby show what she understands? (Include dates.)

How does the baby use gestures, sounds, and some words to communicate?

Babies continue to use gestures even after they start saying words. Their babbling carries the sounds and rhythms of the language they hear around them. Their first spoken words reflect the words they hear most often.

The baby might do one or more of the following:

• Mimic spoken language–use sounds that seem more and more like words as she plays with her toys.
• Greet family members–make a sound that resembles the word 'hi' when a relative returns home.
• Say what she means–use words such as 'up-up' or 'da-da.'
• Point it out–point to the box of crackers or a book she wants.
• Talk about pictures–point to pictures in the book you are reading, and jabber as though telling you something about the picture.

In what way does this baby use sounds and actions to communicate? (Include dates.)