Before Words Come, Gestures Come First
One of the most important early signs of communication development is not words—it is gestures.
Before children begin speaking, they learn to communicate through movement, shared attention, and interaction. Research shows that the number of gestures a child uses between 9 and 16 months can help predict their future language development.
For parents and caregivers, understanding these early milestones can help you recognize when your child is on track—and when additional support may be helpful.
What Does “16 Gestures by 16 Months” Mean?
By approximately 16 months of age, most children use at least 16 different gestures to communicate.
These gestures develop gradually between 9 and 16 months, typically at a rate of about two new gestures per month.
This milestone is not about perfection. Instead, it reflects that your child is:
- Attempting to communicate with others
- Sharing experiences and interests
- Beginning to understand how communication works
Examples of Early Gestures
Children communicate in many ways before they use words. Common early gestures include:
- Waving “hello” or “goodbye”
- Pointing to request or show something
- Reaching up to be picked up
- Showing or handing objects to others
- Clapping
- Nodding “yes”
- Shaking head “no”
- Blowing a kiss
- Raising arms to indicate “all done”
- Looking between an object and a caregiver to share attention
Pointing is one of the most important gestures because it shows that a child is learning to direct attention and communicate intentionally.
Why Gestures Are So Important
Gestures are a critical foundation for speech and language development. They support:
Early Communication
Gestures allow children to express wants, needs, and interests before they are able to use words.
Reduced Frustration
When children can communicate, even without words, they are less likely to become frustrated.
Social Connection
Gestures create shared experiences between children and caregivers, strengthening relationships and engagement.
Language Development
Many children use gestures before they say a word. These gestures often evolve into spoken language over time.
Learning and Attention
Gestures support memory, understanding, and participation in everyday routines.
Research has shown that early gesture use is strongly connected to later language development, school readiness, and academic success.
When to Pay Closer Attention
While children develop at different rates, gestures provide important early indicators of communication development.
You may want to monitor more closely or seek guidance if your child:
- Is not pointing by approximately 12–15 months
- Is not showing or sharing objects with others
- Uses very few gestures by 16 months
- Does not attempt to get your attention
- Appears frustrated when trying to communicate
These signs do not automatically indicate a diagnosis, but they may suggest that your child would benefit from additional support.
How to Support Gesture Development at Home
There are many simple ways to support early communication during everyday routines:
- Model gestures throughout the day (wave, point, clap)
- Pair gestures with words (for example, wave while saying “bye-bye”)
- Encourage pointing during books, meals, and play
- Create opportunities for your child to request or respond
- Follow your child’s lead and build on their interests
- Respond to and reinforce all communication attempts
Consistent, responsive interaction is one of the most effective ways to support early communication development.
When to Seek a Speech Therapy Evaluation
If you have concerns about your child’s communication, it is appropriate to seek guidance early.
Consider requesting a referral for a speech and language evaluation if your child:
- Is not using gestures such as pointing, waving, or showing by 12–16 months
- Has limited interaction or difficulty engaging with others
- Is not using words by 15–18 months
- Is not combining words by age 2
- Becomes frequently frustrated when trying to communicate
- Shows a loss of previously used gestures or communication skills
Families in can start by:
- Speaking with their pediatrician
- Requesting a speech and language evaluation
- Contacting a local pediatric speech therapy provider directly
Early evaluation does not mean something is wrong—it provides clarity, guidance, and support to help your child build strong communication skills.
Supporting Your Child’s Communication Journey
Gestures are one of the earliest ways children learn:
- That they can communicate
- That others respond to them
- That their interactions have meaning
These early skills form the foundation for speech, social interaction, and learning.
If you have questions about your child’s development, seeking support early can make a meaningful difference.
Helpful Resources for Parents
For additional information on early communication and gesture development:
- First Words Project – 16 Gestures by 16 Months
https://firstwordsproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/16-Gestures-x16-Months.pdf
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Developmental Milestones
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
https://www.asha.org/public/speech/development
- Zero to Three – Early Communication Development
https://www.zerotothree.org
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