Cries differently for different needs, e.g. hungry vs. tired

Coos and smiles

Turns head toward sound or voice

Begins to use consonant sounds in babbling, e.g. “da, da, da”

Makes different kinds of sounds to express feelings

Uses babbling to get attention

Listens and responds when spoken to

Reacts to sudden noises or sounds

Notices toys that makes sounds

Imitates sounds

Uses increased variety of sounds and syllable combinations in babbling

Participates in two-way communication

Recognizes sound of their name

Looks at familiar objects and people when named

Follows some routine commands paired with gestures

Understands simple words like “no” and "bye- bye"

Recognizes own name

Babbling has sounds and rhythms of speech

Responds to simple directions, e.g. “come here”

Pays attention to where you are looking and pointing

Says "mama" and "dada" and uses them correctly.

Tries to imitate simple words.

Imitates simple words and actions

Combines sounds and gestures

Consistently follows simple directions

Shows interest in pictures

Can identify 1-2 body parts when named

Repeats words overheard in conversation

Uses at least 50 words

Points at familiar objects and people in pictures

Understands “in” and “on”

Responds to yes/no questions with head shake/nod

Consistently imitates new words

Starts to name pictures in books

Understands simple pronouns (me, you, my)

Understands new words quickly

Identifies 3-5 body parts when named

Uses gestures and words during pretend play

Begins to use 2-word phrases like "more milk"

Uses at least 200 words

Uses simple pronouns (me, you, my)

Understands action words

Follows 2-step related directions (e.g. “Pick up your coat and bring it to me”)

Enjoys listening to stories

Consistently uses 2-3 word phrases

Uses “in” and “on”

At least 50% of speech is understood by caregiver

Follows 2-step unrelated directions (e.g. “Give me the ball and go get your coat”)

Understands basic nouns and pronouns

Understands “mine” and “yours”

Understands basic prepositions like "in" and "on"

Uses three word sentences

Names objects and pictures

Understands and uses simple pronouns (me, you, my, I)​

Understands most questions and basic concepts like colors and shapes

Follows three step commands

Tells stories and relays events in order

Uses sentences with four or more words

Speech is mostly understood by people outside the family