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First Words are One Word Puzzles

Last Updated: September 27, 2008 Related resource areas: Parenting

Parenting Tips for Your 11 Month Old Baby

Your child's first words may be one-word puzzles. Your child may say, “Go,” but he may mean, "Where did Daddy go?" or "I want to go to the car." With one word, your child is trying to tell you a complete thought.

Children who pick up new words quickly are those who have parents who are creative in figuring out what these one-word puzzles mean. The parent's interest and response to the child help him so that he is interested in talking more.

Encourage your child to combine gestures and words. Combining hand motions and gestures with single words will help you to understand what he is saying.

When your baby talks to you, let him finish his sentence before you respond. Say something back to your baby that will let him know that you understand what he said. Ask him a question or help him finish his thought.

Learn more about Your 11 Month Old Baby from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.

Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.