The moment a child speaks a real word for the first time is a monumental joyous milestone that all parents look forward to with nervous impatience. The moment a child speaks a real word for the first time is a monumental joyous milestone that all parents look forward to with nervous impatience.

It is understandable that many parents harbor the hope that the first thing their child decides to say is “mom” or “dad”. Huge sports fanatics may wish stars that the first word their child says is “Raiders”, “Celtics” or “Red Sox”. Still others cross their fingers in anticipation that their offspring is a tiny genius who reads the words “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” the first time she speaks.

Moms and dads can cajole and cajole, bribe and beg, but the decision of what that magical first word will be is ultimately up to the Baby. Some children cooperate with the hopes and aspirations of their parents, while others do not.