Pointing is a major milestone for non-verbal communication. It is one way that your baby expresses what they want or what is holding their interest at the moment. Additionally, as you respond to your baby and talk to them about what they are pointing at, they are soaking in early language. One study even showed that gestures such as pointing could predict a speech delay. Children who pointed with their entire hand at 12 months were likely to have a speech delay by 24 months, compared to children who pointed using just their index finger.  Even though pointing seems simple, it actually expresses a complex pattern of thoughts. It is believed that babies who can point have developed an awareness of object permanence. For example, when they point to a toy that is no longer in sight they are remembering where the toy was sitting.