Talk to your baby—right from the start
Your baby may not understand your words yet, but they are learning from your voice, facial expressions and tone.
Try it:
- Tell your baby what you’re doing: “Let’s get your pajamas on.”
- Narrate everyday activities.
- Sing songs or make up silly ones.
- Read books—even if your baby is too young to follow the story.
- Repeat the sounds your baby makes.
- Point out things around you and name them.
Little reminder: You don't have to fill every moment with words. Your voice, eye contact and attention all send the message: “I’m here with you.”
Follow your baby's lead
Babies communicate before they can talk. Pay attention to their sounds, facial expressions, movements and body language.
When your baby:
- Looks at you → look back and smile.
- Makes a sound → make the sound back.
- Reaches for something → talk about what they're looking at.
- Smiles → smile back.
- Turns away or gets fussy → they may need a break.
This back-and-forth interaction teaches your baby that their communication matters.
I really like this section for Parents Lead because it introduces the idea of responsive parenting without making parents learn a parenting term first.
Make everyday moments count
You don't need more time in your day. Use the moments you already have.
| Everyday moment | Try this |
|---|---|
| Feeding | Make eye contact and talk softly |
| Diaper changes | Sing a song or tell your baby what you're doing |
| Bath time | Talk, smile and play |
| Getting dressed | Name clothing and body parts |
| Car rides | Sing or talk about what you see |
| Bedtime | Read a book and cuddle |
| Walks | Point out sights and sounds |
Read, sing and play
Read
You don't have to finish the book. Let your baby look at pictures, hear your voice and turn pages.
Sing
Your baby doesn't care if you can carry a tune. Your voice is familiar and comforting.
Play
Peekaboo, making faces, copying sounds and playing with simple toys all create opportunities to connect.
Put the phone down and be present
You don't have to be available every second. But when you have a moment to connect, try giving your baby your full attention.
Put your phone aside during a feeding, playtime or bedtime routine. Look at your baby. Talk. Listen. Respond.
Connection doesn't require perfection. It requires presence.
When your baby cries
Crying is one of the main ways babies communicate. You won't always know what your baby needs—and that's okay.
Try to:
- Pause and check in.
- Notice what your baby may be communicating.
- Respond with comfort and reassurance.
- Try again if the first thing doesn't work.
You won't spoil your baby by responding to their needs. Consistent, caring responses help babies learn that they are safe and supported.
Connection helps babies feel safe
A simple educational section explaining the “why”:
When you respond to your baby's needs, talk with them and spend time together, you're helping them learn:
- I am safe.
- My needs matter.
- I can communicate.
- People will respond to me.
- I belong.
Don't forget about you
You matter, too.
Being a new parent can be joyful, exhausting, confusing and overwhelming—all at once. Taking care of yourself helps you be there for your baby.
Try: Ask someone you trust for help, take a break when you can, and talk with your health care provider if you're struggling.