Speech and Language Milestones, Birth to 1 Year
Overview
Speech and language development milestones relate to receptive language (the ability to understand words and sounds) and expressive language (the ability to use speech and gestures to communicate meaning).
Receptive language skills are the first communication skills learned. In the womb, babies hear and respond to familiar voices.
Soon after birth, your baby starts to learn expressive language skills. Around 6 to 9 months of age, most babies start to make the link between sound and meaning. By 12 months, they may have mastered a few words and usually understand far more.
| Receptive language | Expressive language |
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Babies less than 1 month old: |
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1- to 4-month-old babies: |
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5- to 6-month-olds: |
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7- to 9-month-olds: |
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10- to 12-month-olds: |
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Credits
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Topic Contents
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