At about 6–10 months of age, your baby will begin to respond to his name, turning his head when you call it or smiling when you whisper it. Encourage him to learn his name by adding it to the songs you sing to him and the conversations you have.

Your baby also understands some of the other words you say, and he will learn more as you hold and name objects. He’s ready to explore some simple concepts, such as “soft” and “round,” if you give him these words while he holds or touches an object.

See also ...

• Language development in the first year

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