Noting that children s first words are exciting for parents to hear, this book describes how babies can "talk" before they learn to say actual words and shows ways parents can help babies learn language. The book addresses a neglected area in child development--how to help low literacy parents and parents for whom English is a Second Language enhance the language and development of their children at home and through daily routines. Some topics covered include: (1) your baby is smart; (2) reasons for parents to talk to their children even though they can't talk back; (3) toilet training words; (4) finding good books to read to children; (5) songs for parents and children; (6) games; (7) easy toys to make; (8) imagination; (9) television's effect on language development; (10) what you can say when your child says words you don't want to hear; (11) how to get your child to do what you want without getting mad; and (12) helping children develop socially through language. Contains 35 references. (BGC)