When Do Babies Say 'Mama' And 'Dada'? Tips To Help Them Say Their First Words

Hearing a baby's first words is a magical milestone for every parent. The journey to these words, however, is filled with babbling, cooing, and endless anticipation. While each child is unique, there are fascinating insights into when and how babies start saying "Mama" and "Dada." Here's an in-depth look at this heartwarming stage of development, with expert advice to help parents support their little ones on this linguistic journey.

Babies develop at their own pace, reaching milestones on unique timelines. That said, most babies start experimenting with sounds around seven months of age. These early sounds often include repetitive syllables such as "mamamama" and "dadadada." At this stage, these are more babbling experiments than intentional words.

By nine months, many babies start babbling "Mama" or "Dada" on purpose, even if they don't really understand what those words mean. For instance, your little one might say "Mama" while looking at you-or even at the family pet or a favorite toy!

It is usually around the one-year mark that babies start using "Mama" or "Dada" correctly in context and use each parent's name specifically. This is an important milestone in their language development and social connection.

Why Are "Mama" and "Dada" Often the First Words?

Several factors make "Mama" and "Dada" prime candidates for a baby's first words:

1. Frequency of Use

Babies tend to repeat the words they are most exposed to. As a result, parents repeat these words in interaction with their child, and therefore become some of the first sounds a baby attempts to repeat.

2. Phonetics: Easy to pronounce

The "m" and "d" sounds are the easiest sounds for babies to pronounce. Since "Mama" and "Dada" are two syllables with the same sounds, it's easy for the little one just learning how to control the vocal cords to repeat.

3. Emotional Connection

Babies are instinctively attracted to words that elicit strong emotional reactions. The enthusiastic response of the parents to "Mama" and "Dada" motivates the babies to repeat the words, thus reinforcing the association.

Who Wins the First Word Race: Mama or Dada?

The debate over whether a baby says "Mama" or "Dada" first is a playful debate in many households. Research indicates that "Dada" is often said first, mainly because the "d" sound is easier for babies to pronounce than the "m" sound.

However, this is not a rule that is always set in stone. Sometimes, babies prefer "Mama" more, especially when they spend more time with mom or find the "m" sound easier to reproduce. More importantly, this order of the first words uttered does not signify a baby's preference for one parent over the other; it is just a matter of phonetic ease and exposure.

Tips to Encourage Your Baby to Say Mama and Dada

While your baby will speak on their own schedule, there are gentle ways to encourage their linguistic development:

1. Repeat and Reinforce: Frequently say "Mama" and "Dada" while pointing to yourself or your partner. Repetition helps babies associate the sounds with specific people.

2. Tactual Method Hold the baby's hand against your mouth and say "Mama" or "Dada." The feedback by touching can also facilitate understanding how the sounds are formed.

3. Photobook: Create a Simple Photo Album with pictures of "Mama" and "Dada." Sit next to your baby, show the picture one at a time, and say the names out loud. Ask such questions as, "Who is this?".

4. Read to Your Baby: Use books with simple, repetitive language that contains "Mama" and "Dada." Reading not only is beneficial for language development, but it also helps cement the bond between parent and child.

5. Respond to Babbling: Interact with your baby whenever they babble by matching sounds and encouraging dialogue. Positive reinforcement of their attempts at communicating encourages them to continue the effort.

What if your Baby isn't Saying Mama or Dada?

While it's normal to be concerned if your baby hasn't achieved this milestone, remember that every child develops differently. However, if your baby hasn't started saying any words by 12 to 15 months, it is a good idea to see a pediatrician. They might check for hearing or speech issues and provide guidance tailored to your child's needs.

Are Boys More Likely to Say Mama or Dada First?

Interestingly, there is no scientific evidence to indicate that boys or girls are more likely to say "Mama" or "Dada" first. The timing and choice of first words depend entirely on the individual baby and their unique experiences, not their gender.

Tips for Building Language Skills in Babies

Once your baby masters “Mama” and “Dada,” they’ll soon begin adding new words to their vocabulary. Support this growth by:

• Naming Objects: Consistently name objects during play or daily routines to help your baby associate words with their meanings.
• Encouraging Imitation: Use simple sentences and encourage your baby to repeat them.
• Celebrate milestones: Cheer enthusiastically when your baby learns a new word, as positive reinforcement strengthens their motivation.

Hearing your baby say “Mama” or “Dada” for the first time is a moment you’ll treasure forever. While waiting for this milestone can be a test of patience, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. By engaging with your baby, encouraging communication, and celebrating their efforts, you’re laying the foundation for a lifetime of meaningful conversations.

The first word of every baby is a testimony to the child's growth and the love and support he or she gets from the parents. Therefore, whether it is "Mama" or "Dada," your baby will surely become a confident little communicator in no time.

Important Milestones: Your Child By One Year. CDC

Language Development: 8 to 12 Months. American Academy of Pediatrics.