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What Age for First Words?

Published in Child Language Development 2 mins read

Most children typically speak their first word between 10 to 14 months of age.

Based on information from June 12, 2018, this is the common window for this significant developmental milestone. By the time a baby reaches their first birthday (around 12 months), they are usually saying one to three words.

Key Timelines for First Words

Understanding the typical progression can help parents and caregivers know what to expect:

  • 10 to 14 Months: This is the primary age range when most babies utter their very first word.
  • Around 12 Months (One Year Old): At this age, a baby is commonly using between one and three distinct words.

It's important to note that these early words are often simple and may not be spoken perfectly or completely. However, a parent or caregiver who is familiar with the child will usually understand what they mean.

Examples of Early Words

The first words are frequently focused on familiar people or objects in the baby's environment. Examples often include:

  • "ma-ma"
  • "da-da"
  • Names for siblings
  • Names for pets
  • Names for favorite toys

These simple sounds and attempts at words mark the beginning of a child's verbal communication journey.

Summary Table

Age Range Typical First Word Milestone Notes
10-14 Months First Word Spoken The most common timeframe for this step
Around 1 Year 1-3 Words Used Words are often simple or incomplete

Observing your child's communication attempts, even if they aren't perfectly articulated words, is a part of recognizing their language development.

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