Nursery World - Parents need to be told about baby talk, study shows

A research project carried out by Talk to Your Baby reveals that some parents feel silly or embarrassed talking to their babies, while many believe that communication is something that will happen of its own accord.

The study, 'Face to Face', identifies key messages which can be given to parents to encourage them to interact with their babies.

Part of the research targeted parents from lower income grades, non-professional households and those dependent on welfare. The sample included teen parents, single parents and estranged fathers.

Feedback suggests some parents do not recognise the importance of communication and may prioritise chores over baby contact time. Many were unaware of their baby's rapid brain development from birth and did not seek out information about how to develop communication.

However, the study's participants found that positive messages about their child's capacity for learning and development were helpful and parents are keen to act on practical advice.

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