When do babies say their first words?

Few baby milestones are as thrilling as your child's first words. Your baby might babble his first 'dada' or 'mama' at around six to eight months. He may have added a few other words to his list around his first birthday. These tips will help get your baby talking.

Up the chatting ante

Simply talking to your baby teaches him new vocabulary and encourages first words. Provide constant narration as you go about your daily tasks, or when you're in a new environment to introduce him to new words.

Talk back

Follow your child's interests and let him be your guide when deciding what to talk about. For example, if your child is staring at a dog and babbling, make this the topic of conversation and repeat the word 'dog' while pointing at the pup.

Focus on routines and repetition

Daily activities such as bath time, meal times and changing time are ideal opportunities to have the same conversations with your baby each day. During these times, she will begin to pick up on key words and phrases and associate them with the activity.

Model speech for your baby

To help your baby build language skills, speak in slow, short sentences and wait for him to try and repeat when he's ready. Help him to recognise objects and words through play.

Just remember that some children start talking early, and others take their time to utter their first words. Your baby will be on a roll with his words before you know it!