Reacts to loud sounds with startle reflex

Is soothed and quieted by soft sounds

Turns head to you when you speak

Is awakened by loud voices and sounds

Smiles in response to certain voices when spoken to

Seems to know your voice and quiets down if crying

Looks or turns toward a new sound

Responds to "no" and changes in tone of voice

Imitates his or her own voice

Enjoys rattles and other toys that make sounds

Begins to repeat sounds (such as, "ooh," "aah," and "ba-ba")

Becomes scared by a loud voice or noise

Responds to his or her own name, telephone ringing, or someone's voice, even when not loud

Knows words for common things (such as, "cup" or "shoe") and sayings (such as, "bye-bye")

Makes babbling sounds, even when alone

Starts to respond to requests (such as, "come here")

Looks at things or pictures when someone talks about them

Enjoys games like peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake

Imitates simple words and sounds; may use a few single words meaningfully

Follows 1-step commands when shown by a gesture

Uses words he or she has learned often

Uses 2 to 3 word sentences to talk about and ask for things

Says more words as each month passes

Points to some body parts when asked

Understands simple "yes-no" questions (such as, "Are you hungry?")

Understands simple phrases (such as, in the cup, or on the table)

Enjoys being read to

Understands "not now" and "no more"

Chooses things by size (such as, big or little)

Follows 2-step commands (such as, "Get your shoes and come here.")

Understands many action words (such as, run or jump)