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Gestures before words: why pointing matters
Babies and toddlers
4 min read
Gestures before words: why pointing matters
Before first words come gestures. They show that your child wants to share and communicate.
Reviewed by
Maya Chen, M.S., CCC-SLP
Updated
October 1, 2026
Gestures are communication
Waving, reaching, showing you a toy and pointing all tell you something. They often come before first words and help them grow.
What to look for
Reaching up to be picked up.
Waving bye-bye.
Pointing to show you something interesting, not only to ask for it.
Looking back at you to check that you saw it too.
How to respond
Follow the point, name what your child is showing you, and smile. If gestures are rare, mention it to your pediatrician or book a call.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are worried, ask a professional.
Sources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), asha.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Learn the Signs. Act Early., cdc.gov