Makes cooing sounds (aah, ooh)

What is this milestone?

First vocal sounds beyond crying

Cooing consists of soft, musical vowel sounds like 'aah,' 'ooh,' and 'eee.' These are the first non-crying vocalizations your baby will make as they begin to explore the physical mechanics of using their voice.

Why it matters

Cooing is the earliest form of expressive language. By experimenting with these open, airy sounds, your baby is strengthening the muscles in their mouth, throat, and vocal cords, preparing them for more complex speech down the line.

What to expect leading up to it

You'll often hear these sounds when your baby is relaxed, happy, or looking at a stimulating toy. They might start as accidental sighs that gradually become more frequent and intentional as they realize they have a voice.

How to encourage and support it

Have 'cooing conversations' by imitating their sounds and pausing for them to 'reply.' Narrate your day, sing songs, and give them plenty of face-to-face time. Your enthusiastic responses teach them the powerful mechanics of dialogue.

When to talk to your doctor

Cooing usually starts somewhere around 2 to 3 months. Raise it with your pediatrician if your baby is not making any vowel sounds by 4 months, or if they do not startle, quiet, or turn toward loud or familiar sounds -- that can be an early sign of a hearing difference, and hearing is simple to test. And at any age, if your baby loses a skill they already had, tell your pediatrician that week.