A device similar to a Fitbit could help parents do a better job of teaching their children to communicate. Known as talk or word pedometers, these devices are made to be worn by babies and toddlers. They are situated inside a small vest that keeps the tracker positioned on the baby’s chest, not to measure steps or stairs, of course, but to log words, sentences and entire conversations spoken to or overheard by the child. In Providence, R.I., a program called Providence Talks incorporated the devices as part of a larger early intervention program. Early results show that the program has created positive results for children.