First Words Game for Toddlers

How to play with your child

1. Sit together and let your child tap the picture. It moves and says the word.
2. Tap again to hear the word said slowly ("uuup"), which is easier to copy.
3. Pause and wait 3–5 seconds. A sound, a gesture or a try at the word all count.
4. Use the word in real life right after: lift your child "up!", ask "more?" at snack time.

Why these words?

Words like up, more and uh-oh are some of the most useful first words. They work all day long, in lots of situations, and they help toddlers ask for things, comment and connect with you. They're also short and fun to say.

Try each word in everyday life

• Up · Raise your arms before you pick your child up, and say "up!" every time. Wait for them to reach up first.
• More · Give tiny portions of a favorite snack so they can ask for "more." Pair it with the sign: fingertips tapping together.
• Uh-oh · Drop a toy on purpose and say "uh-oh!" with a big surprised face. Kids love making it happen again.
• Bye-bye · Wave and say "bye-bye" to people, toys, the bath water and the car at the end of a ride.
• Go · Play "ready, set... go!" with cars or balls. Pause before "go" and let your child say it.
• All done · Say "all done" with hands up at the end of meals, baths and games.
• Hi · Wave and say "hi" to everyone you meet, including stuffed animals and the dog.
• Night-night · Say "night-night" to toys, the lights and the moon as part of bedtime.

More ideas: 12 ways to help your toddler talk · speech milestones by age · animal sounds game · vehicle sounds game