Sienna sits in her grandmother’s lap as they look out the apartment window.  Her grandmother, Mrs. Lee, says “ba-ba-ba” with a gentle smile.  Sienna’s eyes light up, and she tries to copy the sound.  Soon, they’re taking turns making silly noises, clapping hands, and laughing together—turning a quiet morning into their own special conversation. 

Aims: 
Encourage expressive language through playful sound exchanges. 

Goals: 

• Support babbling, imitation, and conversational turn-taking 

Objectives: 

• Imitate or repeat caregiver’s sounds. 

• Participate in vocal “back-and-forth” 

Transformation: 
Your baby shifts from isolated sounds to interactive “conversations.” 

Foundation: 
Early auditory attention and vocalization 

What Happens Next: 
Leads to first real words and gestures 

Skill Progression: 

• Repetitive babbling (“ba-ba,” “da-da”) 

• Sound imitation 

• Vocal turn-taking 

Activities List: 

• Take turns making simple sounds or syllables. 

• Play “echo” games with animal or object noises. 

• Use gestures (clapping, waving) as you babble. 

Materials: 
Caregiver’s voice, simple musical toys 

Differentiation: 

• Use signs/gestures for less vocal children. 

• Match sound complexity to your child’s abilities 

Integration: 
Babble and echo during diaper changes, mealtime, or walks 

Parent Simulation Tip: 
Pause after making a sound—wait for your baby’s response, then echo it back! 

Interactive Activities: 

• Individual: Face-to-face babbling games 

• Group: Family “sound parade” (everyone takes turns making and repeating sounds) 

Activity Pack: Please print the accompanying activity pack for this lesson.