This paper provides a brief outline of some of the constituents of speech, language, and universal stages of the development of talking in children up to the age of 2 1/2 years. Mention is made of theories put forward to account for universal aspects of speech and language development; recent research into the way adults talk to very small children is discussed. Additionally, suggestions are made on how to encourage and promote speech development in babies and toddlers. Suggestions are given for stimulating the speech of children at three stages of language development: pre-speech, first words, and first sentences. The last section of the paper lists books, pamphlets, and tapes considered useful in encouraging talking behavior. (RH)