There are so many reasons to welcome a pet parrot<\/a> into your life, but teaching your bird<\/a> to talk is up there. Of course, teaching a different species to speak is no easy feat,\u00a0but many birds<\/a> are up for the challenge. So, if you’re a pet parent<\/a> to a feathered friend and you’ve ever thought to yourself “What words should I teach my parrot first?”<\/em> you’re in luck because we rounded up the 5 easiest words to teach your parrot, according to experts.<\/p>\n Seeing how parrots<\/a> are naturally curious and social, it makes learning talk one of the most entertaining parts of having a pet parrot. While not all parrots talk<\/a>, many have the ability to mimic sounds and human speech, giving you plenty of fun times ahead.\u00a0Whether you have a cockatiel, budgie, or African grey, introducing simple, easy-to-learn words can create exciting moments as your talking parrot surprises you with its first phrases.<\/p>\n With that in mind, below are the best words to teach your pet parrot, according to vets. You may be surprised to see what they are and at how quickly your talking parrot can pick them up!\u00a0Watch as your bird<\/a> begins to use its new words throughout the day, adding personality and charm to every interaction you have with them.<\/p>\n Related: 10 Cute Signs Your Parrot Is Happy and Healthy, According to Experts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Believe it or not, how to teach your parrot to talk isn’t super hard. While there are plenty of videos on social media of parrots chattering<\/a> up a storm, Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel<\/a> says it\u2019s best to start with the basics. \u201cSimple words are easiest to learn because they are associated with moments, routines and feelings,\u201d she says.\u00a0\u201cParrots are considered intelligent and social birds<\/a> and learning their first words reveals how they communicate with people.\u201d<\/p>\n Keep in mind that teaching a parrot to talk takes patience and consistency, but starting with the right approach can make learning new words much easier, especially when birds are introduced to speech early and reinforced often. Reinforcement is key during the process, according to Tara M. Harrison, DVM<\/a>, professor of Zoo and Exotic Animal Medicine at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine. \u201cYou can try saying things over and over. For example, do it daily or multiple times a day,\u201d she says. \u201cSome might pick it up or pick up other words.\u201d<\/p>\n Consistency is crucial as well when it comes to teaching your pet parrot how to speak, Warner notes. \u201cSay the word, use the same tone and follow it up with something positive, like attention, praise or a favorite snack,\u201d she says. \u201cThey learn best in a relaxed and social environment where talking is encouraged.”<\/p>\n Some birds will also say some or all of the words they know randomly, Harrison explains. \u201cFor all of them, the earlier in their life you start, the more likely you will be successful,\u201d she says.\u00a0With consistent practice and positive reinforcement, even shy or older parrots can learn a surprising number of words. Start with simple, repeatable phrases and gradually introduce new words to help your parrot expand its vocabulary over time.<\/p>\nHow to Teach Your Parrot to Talk: Expert Training Tips<\/h2>\n