Sing to your baby. You can do this even before your baby is born! Your baby will hear you.

Talk to your baby. Talk to others when baby is near. Baby won't understand the words, but will like your voice and your smile. Baby will enjoy hearing and seeing other people, too.

Plan for quiet time. Baby needs time to babble and play quietly without TV or radio or other noises.

Hold your baby close so she or he will look in your eyes. Talk to baby and smile.

When your baby babbles, imitate the sounds.

If baby tries to make the same sound you do, say the word again.

Play games like Peek-a-boo or Pat-a-Cake. Help baby move his hands to match the game.

When you give baby a toy, say something about it, like "Feel how fuzzy Teddy Bear is."

Let your baby see himself and a mirror and ask, "Who's that?" If he doesn't answer, say his name.

Ask you baby questions, like "Where's Doggie?" If he doesn't answer, show him where.

Show baby how to wave "bye-bye." Tell baby "Show me your nose," then point to your nose. She will soon point to her nose. Do this with toes, fingers, ears, eyes, knees and so on.

Hide a toy while baby is watching. Help baby find it. Share her delight at finding it.

When baby points at or gives you something, talk about the object with her.

Talk about the things you use, like "cup," "juice," "doll." Give your child time to name them.

Ask your child questions about the pictures in books. Give your child time to name things in the picture.

Smile or clap your hands when your child names the thing that he sees. Say something about it.

Talk about what your child wants most to talk about. Give him time to tell you all about it.

Ask about things you do each day—"Which shirt will you pick today?" "Do you want milk or juice?"

When your child says just 1 word, like "ball," repeat it with a little extra—"That's baby's ball."

Pretend your child's favorite doll or toy animal can talk. Have conversations with the toy.

Ask your child to help you. For example, ask her to put her cup on the table.

Teach your child simple songs and nursery rhymes. Read to your child.

Encourage your child to talk to friends and family. A child can tell them about a new toy, for example.

Let your child "play telephone." Have a pretend telephone conversation.

Teach your child to say his or her first and last name.

Ask about the number, size and shape of things your child shows you. If it's worms, you could say: "What fat, wiggly worms! How many are there? Where are they going?"  Wait for the answer. Suggest an answer, if needed: "I see five. Are they going to the park or the store?"

Ask your child tot ell you the story that goes with his favorite book.

Check your local library for programs for toddlers. Ask your pediatrician for other guidelines.

Don't forget what worked earlier. For example, your child still needs quiet time. This is not just for naps. Turn off the TV and radio and let your child enjoy quiet play, singing and talking.