Talking to Your Baby

Five-month-old Maxwell is smiling, cooing, and babbling. Oh, yes, and the bubbles. He blows them. His mother, Amy, is definitely interested in Maxwell's language development, but she's not about to indulge in any baby back-talk. One baby making those kinds of noises in the house is enough. "I think it sounds silly when adults use baby talk," she says.

Would using baby talk slow Max down? On the contrary, say most experts. Babbling to your baby may actually encourage language acquisition. Getting your child interested in sounds and rhythms is an important part of learning to speak. However, language experts also point out that using too many made-up or silly words can interfere with a child's language learning. "Parents should speak to their kids in more sophisticated ways as they grow. This way, they challenge their level of understanding," says psychologist Elizabeth Engelberg.

What Amy needs to do is talk to Max, whether it's baby talk or not. And read. And sing, even if she can't carry a tune. A panel of scientists and early childhood specialists at a White House conference last spring said that talking, reading, and singing to a child, from infancy to three years, can improve his ability to learn throughout his entire life.

When you're enjoying a long conversation with your child, try not to overcorrect his speech. The real goal of toddler language is to communicate an idea, not a word. Much of a toddler's speech may be unintelligible under the age of two. Leave "openings" in your conversation for your child to get a word in edgewise - even if it is only babble. This helps her learn the rhythm of speech.

Experts say that correction by repetition is best. Talking is fun! The more your child enjoys communicating, and sees your enjoyment in talking with him, the better he will learn to speak.

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