Skill· 11mo–22mo· 3 min
Listen and Do
Parent gives simple verbal requests and watches whether child responds — with gestures, actions, or a word. Covers early language comprehension, first words, and command-following milestones at 12-18mo. Three phases: simple commands, question-with-gesture, and word attempts.
Free to do together whenever you like.
What you'll need
Sit with child engaged but not in the middle of something else. Have a familiar object nearby (ball, toy, cup). Speak clearly and naturally — do not over-enunciate. Do not gesture toward the target while giving the instruction.
How it works
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneFollows unsupported spoken requestsMind· 12mo–15mo· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple spoken instructionsMind· 14mo–18mo· core
- MilestoneUses single meaningful wordsMind· 8mo–20mo· stretch
- MilestoneFollows visually supported requestsMind· 12mo–15mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneCreates personal words as they begin to develop language.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneOrients toward named objectMind· 10mo–18mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneNames familiar referentsMind· 15mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneIdentifies named objectsMind· 13mo–2.1y· stretch· Step 2
Visual example
Coming soon