Toddlers work hard on their language skills. Your child shows that she understands many words even though she can't say them. This is called receptive language. For example, when you ask her to hand you a toy or point to a picture in a book, she can do it. Go slowly with requests. Break down activities into many parts. Your child will be able to follow simple requests. For example, if you are looking at a picture book, don't ask, Where are the farm animals? Instead, say things like: Point to the cow. Show me the pig. Do you see a chicken? Give your baby time to think and respond before you move on to the next animal.