you won't stunt his development at all. babies love that verbal pingpong. not only does it help develop language skills to hear the same noise twice in quick succession but it encourages them to make new noises. plus all the eye and physical contact you're giving him when you play this game have immeasurable benefits. you're connecting in so many ways.

it is a good idea to use "big people" language, though - asking a question and actually pausing for a response, touching parts of his body and naming them, singing, finger plays like itsy bitsy spider, going through the house or on a walk and pointing out objects while you name them, flicking on and off the lights while you say "on, off" ... all that kind of stuff ... none of it ever hurts.

i say mix it up. variety is the spice of life.

__________________
Trees give peace to the souls of men * Nora Waln

The forest would be very quiet if no other birds sang than those who sing the best * Henry van Dyke

some fairly sordid tales, rambles, and anecdotes
Hypothetically Speaking * Something More * Cammy Interrupted * An Experimental Vacation * Masked * so..damn..hot * Thank You * My toy, his idea * no.19 Maple Lane * I Have A Surprise For You * Yesterday * In a Quiet Kitchen * help me decide * untitled prose * more untitled prose