Helping your little one learn how to understand and follow directions is a process.

But it takes many more months before she’ll understand a command such as “Touch your nose!”

A baby may eagerly imitate you touching your nose (how hilarious you are!

when do children start to understand directions?

), but not necessarily because she understood the words you were saying while you did it.

She isn’t ignoring your requests at least not yet.

She’s still figuring out what certain words and word combinations mean.

when do children start to understand directions?

When do babies and toddlers understand commands and directions?

Sometime between weeks 6 and 8, you’ll notice herfirst social smile.

Shell also notice toys that make sounds, and pay attention to music.

when do children start to understand directions?

Shell also understand a few commonly used words and look when you point to them.

By 9 months, she’ll understand what no means though she wont always obey it.

But she can understand so much more.

when do children start to understand directions?

and follow one-part instructions (shoe off!).

She can recognize when something is labeled incorrectly (like if you call the dog a plane).

By her third birthday, she’s able to follow instructions with two or three steps.

when do children start to understand directions?

How do I teach my child to follow commands and directions?

The best way to do that?

Talk to her a lot!

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Not sure where to start?

For example, That’s right!

But if you have any concerns about your child’s development, discuss them with your pediatrician.

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At this point, her expressive language will also start to catch up to her receptive language.

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