Use language to respond to older infants’ gestures. When a toddler points to a cookie, say, “Cookie?” Or, when an older infant bangs the cup after drinking juice, say, “Looks like you’re fi nished.”...

Use language to respond to older infants’ gestures. When a toddler points to a cookie, say, “Cookie?” Or, when an older infant bangs the cup after drinking juice, say, “Looks like you’re fi nished.” Name actions that the child is doing. For example, when Jeff was bobbing up and down while music was playing, his caregiver smiled and said, “Gee, Jeff, you’re dancing!” Simple, short, direct statements are best.