What is Joint Attention?

Babies and toddlers are often communicating with their caregivers before speaking words. One way babies and toddlers engage is through joint attention. Joint attention refers to a shared focus. For example, if a baby is playing with blocks, she might lock eyes with a parent to show engagement in the activity. Babies start to develop this skill around 6 months of age. Some children who are neurodivergent may not engage in joint attention, or it may be less frequent.

Readers: Did you engage in joint attention with your baby?

About the Author: Melissa Goff, M.S, CCC-SLP, is the owner of Sunflower Speech & Myo Therapy, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC.