Watching your child begin to speak is a magical milestone, but knowing what counts as a true “first word” can sometimes be confusing. Does “baba” for bottle count? Or what about that enthusiastic “woof” when a dog passes by?
What is a "first word"?
A “first word” is any intentional and consistent gesture, sound, or word that your child uses to refer to something specific in their world. These words don’t have to be uttered with perfect pronunciations, but they should be recognisable to familiar caregivers and have a consistent meaning for the child.
First words can include sounds and approximations like “uh-oh” (for when something falls) or “moo” (when they see a cow). What matters is the connection between the sound and its meaning. For example:
- Sign language and consistent gestures: Child signs for “more” when requesting for more snacks.
- Exclamatory words: Child says “wow” or “uh oh” while playing.
- Words that are mispronounced: Child says “baba” consistently for “bottle” when they’re hungry.
- Symbolic sounds: Child says “woof” when they see a dog, or “choo choo” when they see a train.
- Words in another language: Child may say “狗” [gǒu] and “dog” which would count as two words.
- Other words that are clearly spoken.
What are some common first words?
First words fall into a few categories:
- Names of People: Most children start with names that are meaningful, like “mama” or “dada,” as they’re often the people they see most.
- Names of Objects: Words like “ball,” “car,” or “milk” often become first words as your child becomes more aware of their favourite toys, foods, or other familiar objects.
- Animal Sounds: Sounds like “meow” for cats or “baa” for sheep can count as first words because they’re being used consistently to label something in their world.
- Social Words: Expressions like “hi,” “bye,” or “uh-oh” are common first words as they help your child engage socially.
How Many First Words Should My Child Have?
Children typically start saying their first words at around 12 months of age, but it is important to note that children develop language at different rates. Many children’s language skills develop in a sequence (see below). However, there are some children who do not follow this developmental sequence. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our Speech & Language Therapists here!
Helping Your Child Develop First Words
- Model, Model, Model: Do lots of labelling and naming of the words you want your child to learn during play and daily routines, so that they hear these words often. While children are learning to talk it is better to give them the names of the words, rather than asking “what’s that?”, as they may not have the words needed to respond.
- Comment and Self-Talk: Talk about what you and/or your child are doing, looking at, playing with, eating, etc. Use short phrases and repeat key words. Do this without expecting your child to copy you, and avoid saying “say…”. The aim is to get your child to hear lots of varied vocabulary in their day to day activities.
- Accompany Words with Gestures: Using a gesture or sign when you name something can help your child understand what you are saying. They may begin using the gesture/ sign before they begin using spoken words, as children tend to imitate actions before they imitate words.. Be sure to say the word at the same time as doing the gesture/ sign.
- Acknowledge Attempts: Your child might be using jargon or starting to attempt to imitate some of your words. Do acknowledge and praise their attempts warmly! For example, if they say “buh” when they see a bus, you can respond, “yes, that’s the bus!”
- Repeat, Repeat, Repeat: Children learn best with repetition. Remember to repeat key words over and over again during play and daily routines, so they learn to associate that word with the object/ action.
Conclusion
Remember, every child develops at their own pace, and what matters most is their connection with you and their excitement to learn. First words open the door to communication and the world around them. Celebrate each one – no matter how it sounds – as a big step forward!
If your child isn’t using any words by 15 months, or has very few words by 18 months, consider reaching out to a speech therapist. Early intervention can make a significant difference in language development, and sets a strong foundation for later skills. Should you have concerns about your child’s language development, feel free to reach out to us at Ohana Therapy. We’re here to support you and your child on this exciting journey.
References
- Linguisystems Guide to Communication Milestones (2012)
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2024)
- Sharma, A. & Cockerill, H. (2014) Mary Sheridan’s From Birth to Five Years : Children’s Developmental Progress. 4th edn. Abingdon: Routledge.
- Nicolosi, L., Harryman, E., & Kresheck, J. (2006). Terminology of communication disorders (4th ed.). Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins.
- Owens, R. E. (1996). Language Development: An Introduction. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
