Speech · Around 10–12 months
First meaningful words
First meaningful words often appear around 10–12 months. Mama, dada, hi or bye may be among the first.
26 August 2026 · 2 min read · A Baby Bee Blossom family note
From our home
A word counts when baby uses the same sound for the same person or thing. It does not need to sound perfect.
What you may hear
- Mama, dada, hi, bye or another familiar word.
- A short sound used for the same thing each time.
How to help
- Name the thing baby points to.
- Repeat their attempt, then say the full word.
Sources behind this note
- CDC: milestones by 1 year (opens in a new tab)
- ASHA: communication milestones from birth to 1 year (opens in a new tab)
Wonder Weeks is referenced where it shaped our family's way of noticing change. Baby Bee Blossom is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Wonder Weeks.