Checklist: Simple Ways to Encourage Baby's Language Development

It's easier than you think to help baby learn to talk. Here are simple tactics to get her started speaking.

By the editors of Parents.com from American Baby

___ Use simple words and sentences, which are easier for babies to process and repeat back.

___ Identify people and objects by their actual names. The more specific you are, the better. For example, say "see the flower?" versus "see that?" Or "where is Daddy?" instead of "where is he?"

___ Use exclamations, like "Look!" to highlight something new, different or interesting.

___ Enunciate -- and pronounce words slowly and clearly.

___ Face your baby when you talk, whenever possible. He'll learn how to mimic you by watching how you move your mouth, lips, and tongue when you speak.

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