Let Me Add to That

Prep: None/Activity Time: 3–4 Minutes

At this age, most babies say their first words. Your baby will collect new words to use, and she may say about a dozen words by the end of this stage. Expand her one-word response by stretching it into a sentence. Go a step further by making up a story, rhyme or song that has to do with your baby’s new favorite word!  

  • Your baby’s voice 
  • Your voice 

Step 1: When your baby uses a word, stretch it into a sentence or two. For example: 

Baby: “Dog” 

You: “Yes, it’s a dog. He has very soft fur.”   

Baby: “Dog” 

You: “Yes. Look at the cute dog!” 

Step 2: Take it further by making up a song, rhyme, or story about your baby’s word. For example: 

“That little dog is black and white. 

He doesn’t bark and he doesn’t bite. 

He’ll run around and sit and stay. 

Throw a ball! He loves to play! 

He’ll sniff your hand and give you a smooch. 

This little dog is one nice pooch!”