When is a sound actually a word?

Many parents wait for first words to sound “right,” but early language doesn’t work that way. A first word doesn’t need perfect pronunciation — it needs meaning, consistency, and intent.

In this First Word Friday video, our speech-language pathologists explain the three simple rules that help determine whether a child’s sound (or gesture) counts as a real word — and how parents can support language growth at home through everyday interactions, not drills.

If your child is vocalizing, gesturing, or attempting to communicate, language may already be developing. You just need to know what to listen for.

Watching your child grow and develop is a joyful experience, but concerns about speech and language delays can be worrisome. At Prairie Grit Therapy, we help parents understand the signs of speech and language delays and provide effective strategies to support their child’s communication journey. From limited vocalizations to difficulty being understood, recognizing these early signs can lead to timely intervention and better outcomes. Learn practical ways to boost your child’s speech development through talking, reading, singing, and creating a communication-rich environment. Discover more on our blog, Growing with Grit.