Those precious coos from earlier months will soon become babbles and “baby jargon,” in which it sounds like your baby is trying hard to talk but isn’t producing clear first words just yet. Rest assured, babbling, and baby jargon are purposeful precursors to talking!
No two babies will start to babble at the same time, but it commonly emerges between 4-6 months. Early-stage babbling will sound simple and short, like “ba.” This will sound noticeably different from cooing, which is more like, “ooooooooooohhh.”
Babies then spend several more months advancing their babbling skills until their first birthday, at which point those first words are common.
More advanced babbling will sound a bit repetitive, like “ba-ba.” In time, they’ll mix sounds for the ultimate baby jargon, like “ba-de-dog-ma-pop.”
When you hear baby jargon, sometimes called “conversational babbling,” try honoring it as an invitation to converse. “Oh, is that right? Tell me more! How was lunch with Dad?”
As you engage, notice how your baby will also be working on their gestures, facial expressions, tone, rhythm, and turn-taking. So many skills are at play! You might even notice that your baby’s first word comes out during this stage – an exciting milestone for both of you.
Here are some other ways to support and reinforce babbling:
Ensure you are getting close and on their level when talking so they can study your face
Imitate them
Narrate what you’re doing out loud, even if it seems mundane.
If your baby is not smiling, babbling, or appearing responsive to eye contact and noises, be sure to consult your pediatrician.