Sofia’s mom, Dr. Okafor, smiles as Sofia toddles across the living room, waving her favorite book and saying “Mama!” clearly for the first time.  The family pauses their conversation to cheer for Sofia, who now tries to say “ball” and “bye-bye,” practicing her new words with everyone she meets. 

Aims: 
Encourage first spoken words and understanding 

Goals: 

• Support naming and basic word use 

Objectives: 

• Recognize and try to say familiar words. 

• Use words, signs, or gestures to indicate needs or interests. 

Transformation: 
Your baby begins to communicate with intention 

Foundation: 
Previous naming, imitation, and routines 

What Happens Next: 
Ready for more words and short phrases 

Skill Progression: 

• Saying first words 

• Using words/signs for needs (“more,” “mama”) 

Activities List: 

• Repeat favorite words often. 

• Pair words with actions (“wave bye-bye”) 

• Celebrate every new attempt at a word. 

Materials: 
Toys, family photos, daily routines 

Differentiation: 

• For less verbal babies, encourage signs and gestures. 

• Use routines for word reinforcement. 

Integration: 
Practice new words during meals, play, and outings. 

Parent Simulation Tip: 
Mark first words on a family chart or memory book 

Interactive Activities: 

• Individual: Naming games 

• Group: Family “word parade” (each person picks a word to repeat) 

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