Who Is Mom?

1. 1

   At two months, your baby can recognize Mom only at close range, but her voice and scent are already familiar. Use these ideas to help connect the word “Mom” with the person.

2. 2

   Repeat the name: Use “Mom” while caring for your baby: “Mom is here to feed you.” This lets your baby hear the same word in familiar moments.

3. 3

   Use a familiar melody: Say “Mom” with the same gentle rhythm and tone so the sound becomes easier to recognize.

4. 4

   Match word and person: As your baby wakes, say, “Mom is here,” while Mom moves into view. The word and the person appear together.

5. 5

   Your baby does not need to understand the word yet. Hearing it in meaningful moments builds the connection over time.

What to notice

• Responds when they hear you say “Mom” Vocabulary
• Smiles when they hear you speak Relationships with Adults

Tips

• Use the same approach with “Dad,” another caregiver’s name, and your baby’s own name.

Developmental benefits

• Language: Hearing “Mom” in familiar moments helps your baby begin connecting the word with the person it names.