Communication, month by month
9 months
Babbles & familiar names
Source window: 7–9 months. Skills emerge across this range, not on a monthly deadline.
What communication can look like
- Looks when their name is called and recognizes some familiar names.
- Babbles long strings of sounds such as babababa.
- Raises arms to be picked up and pushes unwanted objects away.
Everyday examples
babababa · mamamama · upup
Illustrative sounds, words, or phrases—not a required vocabulary list. Welcome gestures, AAC, and home languages too.
A little moment to try
Echo a little babble, then pause. Notice gestures and looks as part of the conversation too.
Ask Joey AI
A little card to share
Explore cards inspired by the CDC 9-month checkpoint. One card is free; subscriber extras are coming soon.
Explore family cardsGrounded in published guidance
Milestone lists describe common skills, not an assessment or diagnosis. AI can be imperfect. For individual concerns, speak with a speech-language pathologist or pediatrician. For adults only; no personal child details or saved conversations.