Creating Words
Parent models monosyllables and simple word combinations for baby, encouraging vocal imitation and early babbling. The agent coaches the parent to articulate clearly, pause for baby's responses, and celebrate any vocal attempts — building phonological awareness and turn-taking foundations.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Parent and baby seated face to face at close range. Baby should be alert and calm. No background noise or TV.
How it works
- 1~30s
Let's start simple. Look right at your child and slowly say 'ba... ba... ba' with a big, exaggerated mouth movement. Pause after each one and give your child a moment to respond. Then try 'ma... ma... ma'. Watch their face and mouth — does your child try to move their lips, make any sound, or look at your mouth with interest? Tell me what you see.
Watch for: Baby produces consonant sounds like 'm', 'b', 'p', 'd' in response to parent's modeling.
- 2~35s
Now let's put those sounds together. Say 'ma-ma' slowly and clearly, then 'da-da', then 'ba-by'. Clap your hands gently or smile big after each word to make it fun. Repeat each one two or three times. Does your child try to repeat any of the combinations? Even a single syllable back counts — they doesn't need to say the whole word!
Watch for: Baby repeats syllable combinations like 'baba', 'dada', or 'mama' in response to parent modeling.
- 3~30s
For our last round, let's play with tone. Say 'ba-ba-ba' in a high, sing-song voice, then say it again in a low, funny voice. Try making 'ma-ma' sound like a question — going up at the end — and then like an exclamation — with energy! Watch if your child changes their own tone or pitch when babbling back. Does they seem to match your energy or try different sounds?
Watch for: Baby uses different tones, pitches, or intonation patterns in babbling.