What's In a Word?

You are absolutely correct. Today's photo has nothing to do with the title. However, it is a good representation of Gavin's progress and you might guess what he is up to. With the abilities to stand, climb, toddle, and crawl, he has access to good 60% of the house. Gavin is keeping us busy, but has not gotten into any serious trouble or messes -- yet.

So onto the title... What's in a word? I've been think about this question in relation to Gavin for quite a while. I am fascinated watching Gavin develop the desire to do things and say things. Even more amazing are the moments when he bridges the gap between the two and begins to communicate.

As many other parents are doing these days, we have introduced Gavin, as well as ourselves, to American Sign Language. He has been able to ask for milk, crackers, "more", and to go to bed for several weeks now. It is an interesting process as babies and toddlers tend to interpret signs in their own way. For instance, Gavin is able to identify dogs by sight or sound and will sign dog by tapping his chest with the palm of his hand instead of his thigh. Whatever works -- apparently he is getting his point across.

As far as the verbal stuff, I think I had formed a preconception of the First Word as a glorious milestone where Gavin would announce some complicate word at least three syllables long and I would beam my parental pride. And from time to time, Gavin has blurted out enough of a word to recognize such as fish or apple. At present, Gavin can say cracker, car, and happy (we think). So between the signing, the partial words, and now the distinct words, what's in a word?

What I have realized is each new word he expresses is a wonder in itself whether it be a new sign he picks up or a new verbal exclamation. It is something I already knew -- that each day brings some new discovery. And on the days Gavin decides that the status quo will suffice, I am just as happy listening to him chant "happy, happy, happy, happy" as he cruises along.