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Why is our baby girl not saying "mommy"?

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in 12-24 Month Babies by
Our 17-month-old baby girl keeps saying "baba" (father) but rarely says "anne" (mother). I'm from Turkey, where the word for father is "baba," and my wife might be feeling a bit down about it. Should I be concerned?
Artificial Intelligence Health Assistant's Answer

It's common for children to develop language skills at different rates, so there's no need to worry just yet. At 17 months old, your baby girl may simply be more familiar with the word "baba" because it's used more frequently in your household or she finds it easier to pronounce. Keep in mind that every child is unique and will reach milestones at their own pace. Encourage your wife not to take it personally as this is a normal part of language development. Instead, focus on creating a nurturing environment where your daughter feels comfortable expressing herself. Engage in activities that promote language skills, such as reading books together or singing songs that include the word "anne." If you're still concerned about her speech development after a few more months, consult with a pediatrician or speech therapist for further guidance and support.

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Usually children learn the words they need to know to get particular types of attention first, and use them most frequently.

So while there may be many reasons for her to choose saying "baba" and "dede" more frequently than "anne" one possibility is that you and grandpa don't pay as much attention to her as her mother. When she wants her mother's attention, she may already have it.

Mother might be anticipating her needs or paying attention more carefully to her other cues.

You and Grandpa, however, might not notice when she is trying to grab your attention unless she uses those words.

If this is the case - and clearly it's only one possibility of many - then if mom wants her to use "anne" to get mom's attention, she will have to let your daughter be a little more independent, stop anticipating her needs, and require her to ask for things she wants - including mom's attention.

In other words, it would be up to mom and the daughter to decide how best to communicate. If neither of them feel it necessary for the daughter to use "anne" then they won't.

This behavior actually speaks in favor of the closeness of their relationship, and probably shouldn't be viewed negatively.
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The saying I heard since I was a child was "walking by one, talking by two." She'll get there! My son called me 'ball' for quite a while after he could say 'Daddy,' but who gets the lion's share of the kisses and snuggles? :)

If you have serious concerns about her development, see your pediatrician. However, this internet stranger's opinion, based on information from 3 sentences, is this is perfectly normal and your daughter's vocabulary will progress as she grows and learns.
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You certainly shouldn't be concerned! When she is a little older, standing behind you trying to get your attention while yo are trying to do some work, or just have a conversation, the constant "Dad!, Dad!, Dad!, Dad!...... Dad!" wont be in the least bit flattering :)

Seriously, it could simply be that Mum gives her more immediate attention than you do - so she 'knows' that just looking up at Mum will get her what she wants - while Dad jsut takes a bit more persuasion.

She's starting in the right way - controlling you :)
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