Baby talk

Baby talk, also known as infant-directed speech or IDS, is a way of talking to young children that involves using a higher pitch, exaggerated intonation, and simplified vocabulary. Adults often use baby talk with babies and young children because it is believed to help them learn language and engage with them on a more social level.

When adults use baby talk, they often speak at a slower rate and use shorter sentences with simple words that are easy for babies to understand. They may use different facial expressions and body language to convey meaning and engage the child's attention. For example, adults might use exaggerated facial expressions like smiling, frowning or sticking out their tongue while talking to a baby to help them understand the meaning behind the words.

One of the most distinctive features of baby talk is the use of a high-pitched tone or sing-song voice, which is often called “motherese.” This tone of voice helps babies notice and focus on the sounds of language and helps them identify objects and actions in the world around them.

Studies have shown that babies prefer to listen to baby talk rather than to talk that is spoken in a normal adult voice. This may be because babies are more sensitive to the emotional and social cues that are conveyed through the high-pitched, sing-song tone of baby talk.

In summary, baby talk is a way of speaking to young children that involves using a higher-pitched tone, simplified vocabulary, slower rate, and exaggerated facial expressions and body language. It helps babies learn the meaning of words and engage with adults on a more social level.