Why Teach This Early?
Language development in the first two years predicts later academic success.
Progressive Sub-Goals
Introduction
Target: 12-14 monthsSays 1-3 words with meaning (mama, dada, ball)
💡 Tip: Celebrate first words! Repeat them back. Don't correct - just model correctly.
Developing
Target: 15-18 monthsVocabulary grows to 10-20 words
💡 Tip: Name everything! Read books daily. Point and label objects throughout the day.
Mastery
Target: 18-24 monthsUses 50+ words and begins two-word phrases
💡 Tip: Expand their phrases: "Ball!" becomes "Yes, big red ball!" The vocabulary explosion is coming!
Teaching Tips
- 1Talk constantly throughout the day
- 2Read books daily
- 3Respond to all communication attempts
Global Context
The "30 million word gap" research shows early language exposure is crucial.
Learning Resources
It Takes Two to Talk: A Practical Guide for Parents of Children with Language Delays by Jan Pepper and Elaine Weitzman
View on AmazonRelated Skills to Explore
#9 Communication & First Words
Leadership & Social • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Coos and makes vowel sounds
#10 Social Smiling & Bonding
Leadership & Social • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Makes eye contact and shows social smile
#20 Responds to Name
Leadership & Social • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Occasionally looks when name is called
#29 First Steps & Walking
Health & Wellness • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Takes steps while holding onto furniture or hands
#31 Spoon & Fork Use
Kitchen & Food • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Holds spoon and brings to mouth (with spills)
#32 Open Cup Drinking
Practical Life • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Drinks from open cup held by adult