What are typical speech and language milestones at 0-6 months?

At 0-6 months, most babies love being touched and held. They are really interested in exploring faces and listening to familiar voices, so they enjoy being held close to help them do this!

At this stage it is common for babies to have ‘fleeting’ attention and they often shift their focus quickly between different objects and people. Babies at this age enjoy listening to sounds and may turn if they hear a favourite ‘noisy’ toy or people talking. They are often startled by loud noises, which may make them ‘jump’.

Babies start to understand the world around them by picking up on environmental clues (e.g. when they see their towel and hear the bath running, they know it will soon be bath time). Having a simple daily routine can really help support your baby to develop skills in anticipation and understanding.

It’s important to remember that every child’s development is different, and variations in speech and language milestones are common. However, if you have concerns about your child’s speech and language development, discuss your observations with their GP or Health Visitor. Early intervention can make a significant difference in addressing any potential delays and supporting your child’s communication skills.

Watching your baby’s journey through speech and language development is an incredible experience filled with wonder and excitement. By understanding the typical milestones and providing a supportive environment, you can help nurture your baby’s communication skills and lay the foundation for a lifetime of meaningful interactions. Celebrate each small achievement along the way, knowing that every baby is unique and develops at their own pace. Through responsive and loving interactions, you can foster a strong bond with your baby while empowering them to explore the world of language and communication with confidence.