In language, meaning is made through the important relationships of the young child. We see the caregivers of the infant and toddlers as they follow the child in the beginning steps in language and preparation for literacy. Observe the processes skilled caregivers use to listen and respond to the child's communication: from nonverbal expressions to the use of phrases and sentences. Parents and caregivers share information with the viewer concerning the child's language and their use of signs to enhance the communication both at home and in child care. Caregivers discuss ways to assist children who may show language delays and whose home language is different than English. Caregivers demonstrate sharing books in ways meaningful to the child from early infancy on through the second year. To prepare for later literacy, caregivers use pictures and photos and introduce materials for scribbling and representation. In all of these, language and literacy make an essential link in cognitive understanding and communication with others.