@Rockbythetree Build trust by letting Aristotle come to you, then once you’ve started to build that relationship, talk to him everyday. Point to objects and name them. Ask full questions (e.g. do you need a drink of water?). Play with toys together and spend time letting him hang out with you in the evenings or while you work. Basically treat him like another person. This enriches his life and is how I’ve had both of my parakeets learn to talk and engage in ways that we understood each other. Good luck!

@drjacannon thanks for the advice! I knew budgies were smart, but didn't know they were that preceptive! The only thing I've been saying to him is "hello" because I thought it would be cute if he says hello to everyone. Ha. I'll start talking more. He already gets on my finger and I let him out to fly for a few hours a day. I also have cats so he can't be free to roam in and out of the cage or fly outside the one room of the house, unfortunately.

@Rockbythetree They are smart cookies! My most recent girl (had her 12 years before she passed) learned my name (among 20-30 other words) and even asked where I was when I was not around. The one I had as a kid would ask for what she wanted and easily had a vocab over 100 words. Repetition and speaking clearly are key. Definitely be careful with the cats around too, they like to slip into rooms unnoticed.