At what age does language development begin in infants?

Language development in infants typically begins around six months of age. This period is marked by significant advances in the ability to communicate, including the emergence of cooing and babbling, which are foundational stages in the development of speech. During this time, infants begin to experiment with sounds, practicing the basic elements of language that they will later use in forming words.

By six months, babies are also increasingly responsive to verbal communication from adults, showing an understanding of the rhythm and melody of speech, which is crucial for later language proficiency. This stage is critical as it lays the groundwork for linguistic skills that will develop further in subsequent months.

Understanding the timing of language development is important, as it influences how caregivers can support an infant’s communicative growth effectively.