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5 Age-Appropriate Activities to Help Baby Learn to Listen and Talk

Talk, read and sing to grow baby’s brain by following these tips based on major milestones.
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By Kate Traverson, Senior Manager: Branded Content
Published January 29, 2025
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Image: Getty

As exciting as it is to hear baby’s heartbeat and see each ultrasound, it’s just as rewarding (if not more!) to see them reach their developmental milestones over the first year. From first smile to first words, we’ve rounded up the biggest brain development milestones to watch for, plus fun ways to engage baby’s new skills and encourage speech and language learning. Flip through the milestones below, and see new activities to try with your little one.

For more information about how baby’s hearing impacts their development, visit HearingFirst.org. If you suspect baby may have trouble hearing, it’s important to seek out support right away. Hearing First can help you find the right resources and next steps for your family.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), CDC’s Developmental Milestones, 2022

Hearing First, LSL Strategies and Techniques

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