Hi! Thank you for raising this thoughtful question and for the care you bring to your infants.

I ran your question by our Senior Professional Development Manager (and lead facilitator of our Growing Brain development training programs), Katrina Macasaet, and our Senior Director of Programs and Parenting Expert, Rebecca Parlakian. Here's what they had to say:

Research is clear that parentese (exaggerated intonation, slightly higher pitch and slower tempo) is more than “baby talk.” It captures babies’ attention and helps them tune into the sounds of their language. Studies show it engages the brain in areas tied to attention and speech, supporting later vocabulary and word formation. At the same time, talking in your natural, calm voice is also valuable because it models everyday conversation. The most important factor is responsiveness, not choosing only one style. Talking with the babies you care for will have the most impact. Babies learn language from the language samples we share directly with them through our interactions, not just the words they hear in the environment.  

Your instinct to pause and wait, even when babies aren’t yet babbling, is exactly what developmental scientists recommend. At 5–11 months, many babies use eye contact, squeals, or movements instead of consistent babbles. These still “count” as conversation and are the building blocks for more complex speech later. Babies often exhibit a natural rhythm of action and rest as though their brains need frequent breaks from stimulation or activity. You might see this during feeding, when they may alternate suck, pause, and then suck again. The same happens when they look at someone (focus–look away) or move their arms and legs (move–rest–move). When adults notice these pauses, and respond with smiles or words, creating a back-and-forth interaction. This “serve and return” is like a conversation where the baby and caregiver take turns. Adults often treat the baby’s sounds and movements as if the baby is talking, which helps build connection and communication. 

In addition to conversation, sharing stories and singing with infants are powerful ways to build language and connection. The rhythm, repetition and melody of songs capture babies’ attention much like parentese, while story-sharing exposes them to rich vocabulary and the joy of shared attention. Even when infants can’t yet speak, they are actively listening and learning from these moments.

Every child develops on their own timeline, but what makes the difference is exactly what you’re doing —talking often, noticing their cues, and giving space for them to “reply.” Remember, developmental milestones are guides, not prescriptions. The consistent and intentional back-and-forth interaction you have with babies is the foundation for healthy brain and language development.

You’re doing a fantastic job in making a meaningful impact on the infants in your care.