Communication Development: By 1 Year

Here is some information about how children's communication skills usually develop by the age of 1. Below are some activity suggestions to encourage communication from 1 year. Use the language that you are most familiar and comfortable with.

By 1 year, what should my child be able to say and do?

• respond to common words such as "no!", "bye bye"
• know the names of familiar things, such as māmā, teddy
• show you objects to get your attention
• be starting to use some single words
• enjoy repetitive games with others, such as 'peek a boo'
• take turns in conversations with adults by babbling; for example, "mumma mumma" 
• use their words and gestures to be social, to ask and to show
• start to show an interest in looking at pictures in books 
• enjoy listening to songs and nursery rhymes

What are some tips to help my baby's communication development at 1 year?

• get face to face with your baby
• reduce background noise when playing and talking with your baby; for example, turn off the TV
• copy your baby's babbling and take turns in a 'conversation'
• talk to your baby when doing things together; for example, bath time, mealtimes