Baby development...

IT'S NOTHING PERSONAL Don't take it personally if your baby says "Dada" before "Mama" - it's only natural. "Mama" will come in time, so don't try to push him. The second year is full of challenging behaviour such as temper tantrums and refusals. Your child is testing your limits: "How far can I go to get what I want now". At this age your child finds it hard to understand that some things cannot be had immediately. Do take note of how he communicates, and be reassured if he gestures effectively and understands simple, single requests like "Go and get your shoe." Listen to what he says when he is alone in his cot: Children practise language and review their exciting experiences through "cot speech." You'll hear elements of the day's events, your own "no's" and even voice imitations as your child works at consolidating all that he's learning.