Imitation becomes a learning shortcut
Copying sounds, faces and movements
By The Millie's Team · Parenting Notes
Around week forty, your baby may start copying you more often. Sounds, facial expressions and small actions can all become things to mirror back.
What is happening
Imitation is a powerful way to learn. By copying you, your baby is practising new skills with a built-in teacher. They are also learning that the things you do are things they can do too.
Is this normal
Yes. Some babies copy with their faces, others with sounds or hands. Both are normal. Not every action will be copied, and that is fine. Imitation is selective.
What you may notice
- Copying simple sounds back to you
- Mirroring facial expressions
- Trying to wave when others wave
- Repeating an action you have just done
What helps right now
- Doing simple actions clearly and slowly
- Singing songs with actions
- Pulling faces during play
- Praising the trying as much as the doing
What to expect next
Over the coming weeks, imitation often expands into small everyday tasks. Pressing a button on a toy because you did, or trying to brush their own hair, can all start to appear.