Topic Overview
Speech and language development milestones relate to receptive language (the ability to understand words and sounds) and expressive language (the ability to use speech and gestures to communicate meaning).
Receptive language skills are the first communication skills learned. In the womb, babies hear and respond to familiar voices.
Soon after birth, your baby starts to learn expressive language skills. Around 6 to 9 months of age, most babies begin to make the link between sound and meaning. By 12 months, they may have mastered a few words and usually understand far more.
| Receptive language | Expressive language |
Babies less than 1 month old: |
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1- to 4-month-old babies: |
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5- to 6-month-olds: |
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7- to 9-month-olds: |
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10- to 12-month-olds: |
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Related Information
Credits
Current as of: August 22, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics
Thomas M. Bailey, MD, CCFP - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
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Related Information- Top of the page
Current as of: August 22, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics & Thomas M. Bailey, MD, CCFP - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics