Long before your baby says their first word, they’re busy learning how to communicate.

From those heart-tugging cries to the first gurgly giggles, early communication is powerful, fascinating, and packed with developmental magic. Here’s how it all begins…

a baby wrapped in a swaddle sleeps in a basket with a book called engineering for babies

Crying is the First Language

Your baby’s first way of communicating is crying. It signals hunger, discomfort, tiredness, or the need for comfort—and when you respond, they learn that their voice matters.

a little girl sleeps in a nest with white hydrangeas

They Start to Copy Sounds Early

From about 6–8 weeks, you may notice cooing and gurgling. These aren’t just cute noises—they’re your baby’s first attempts to join the conversation.

A little boy smiles iwth a washing line behind him from a rustic tin tub

Facial Expressions Matter

Your baby studies your face more than anything else. Smiles, raised eyebrows, and animated expressions help them begin to associate feelings and responses.

a little girl looks annoyed at a cake smash

Tone of Voice Comes First

Babies understand emotional tone before they learn words. Soothing tones comfort, excited tones stimulate—it’s all part of learning how communication feels.

Twins dressed in denim smile for the camera

Repetition Builds Connection

Saying the same words again and again—especially with gestures and expressions—helps your baby link sounds to meaning. That’s the start of real language.

These first moments of connection—through sound, sight, and tone—lay the groundwork for everything to come. Keep chatting, smiling, and responding. You’re building your baby’s understanding of the world one moment at a time.

Tiny Humans, Big Facts – Want Some More?

Looking for gentle guidance and little-known tips to help you navigate pregnancy and the early days with your newborn? Tiny Humans, Big Facts is a growing collection of bitesize blog posts, packed with insight from the studio—covering everything from pregnancy pointers to baby-soothing techniques and behind-the-scenes secrets. Whether you’re expecting, just starting out, or simply curious, there’s always something helpful to discover.

Newborn Photography in East Grinstead

Newborn photo shoots are best when your baby is between 5 and 10 days old—this is when they’re at their sleepiest and curliest, perfect for capturing those beautifully serene images. To ensure you don’t miss out, I recommend booking while you’re still pregnant—we’ll set a provisional date for a week after your due date and adjust if needed once your baby arrives.

Your session takes place in my warm and cosy studio in Crawley Down, designed for your baby’s comfort. The shoot is relaxed, unrushed, and includes three digital images of your choice, all for £95. There’s no sales session—just a private online gallery where you can view and select your favourites at your own pace.