Helping your little one learn to comprehend and follow commands is a gradual journey. Your child’s receptive language skills—which involve understanding words and sounds—begin developing right from birth. However, it may take several months before they can follow a command like “Touch your nose!” While a baby might mimic you touching your nose, they may not fully grasp the words you’re saying at that moment. They’re not ignoring your requests; rather, they are still deciphering the meanings of specific words and phrases.
When Do Babies and Toddlers Start to Understand Commands?
The timeline for receptive language development differs from the ability to express oneself verbally. Generally, babies will understand what is being said to them before they are capable of communicating back. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:
- Newborn to 3 Months: At this stage, your newborn will show attention to sounds and voices, particularly in a friendly tone, but they won’t yet comprehend specific commands.
As your child grows, you can encourage their understanding of directions through playful interaction and consistent communication. For more insights into this process and tips on teaching your child to follow commands, check out this post.
If you notice your child struggling to follow directions, you may want to explore additional resources like this excellent guide on family-building options, which can provide further assistance. Additionally, for those interested in understanding sleep disorders that might affect language development, this site offers valuable information.
In summary, receptive language skills begin at an early age, and while your baby may not be able to verbalize their understanding initially, they are actively learning through observation and imitation. With patience and engaging activities, you can foster their ability to comprehend and respond to commands over time.