Fact or Fiction?

FACT OR FICTION... “Baby talk” impedes a child’s language development?

Fiction!

Baby talk is the different way in which we may speak to babies with a higher pitch, slower pace, simple vocabulary, repetition of words and the use of vivid facial expressions. Sometimes, this is known as 'motherese' or 'parentese'. An example would be:

“Wowww! Look at the doggy!

Doggy says woof!

The doggy is playing.

Let’s throw a ball to the doggy!”

Some people believe that using baby talk may hinder their child’s language development. In fact, research suggests the opposite – a baby will learn the important words (doggy), associate it with the thing (dog) and learn how we use that word in a sentence and some words associated with it (woof, play, ball). The repetition helps them learn to say the word too. Don’t be afraid to use baby talk!

Until next time, stay unique!