When should my baby start speaking words?

Development is non-linear, and the range for early speech is quite wide. While some babies may say a few words around 12 months, others focus on physical milestones like walking first and begin talking later. Remember that communication includes more than just spoken words; gestures (like waving or pointing), sounds, and signs all count toward their language development. Keep narrating your day, reading books, and singing to your child to support their learning.