Receptive language is the ability to understand words, sentences and gestures. In babies it develops ahead of speaking: most understand simple words such as their name and "no" in the first year, long before they can say them.
What you can do
- Use short, clear sentences and point to what you are talking about.
- Give simple instructions with gestures: "Give me the ball."
- Name objects, people and actions throughout the day.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your baby does not respond to their name by 9 months, does not seem to understand simple words by 12-15 months, or cannot follow simple instructions by around 18 months. A hearing test is often the first step.
