Delay your response to your child’s gestures
A child’s first words are typically associated with objects, people and social interaction most important to them. When a child initially learns to speak, he says words that are most meaningful to him in order to get his point across. If you are unable to figure out what your child is saying then try to read his gestures but do not respond immediately. Play “Dumb” when your child requests something. (e.g., If your child gives you an empty juice cup, ask, “Do you want to go out? Do you want to eat? Do you
want to watch TV?” Then, in a surprised manner say, “Oh, do you want juice?”).
