Suzanne Stricker
The development of language can be quite challenging. Young children must acquire four components in order to be successful. The first is phonology which is the knowledge of how words sound. The second is semantics which the meaning of many words. The third is syntax which is the various rules for how words are formed. The last component is the pragmatics of language which is how to use language to effectively communicate socially.
There are many different theories of language development. Some describe it as the result of children imitating speech. Other theorists suggested that praise and rewards are effective while children are learning to speak. There are also theories that show that biology may explain language development. Another theory is that learning language skills emerge from various activities.
Language begins as early as 3-4 months as infants begin sorting objects. They understand words as early as 8 months of age. Comprehension will most of the time come before production. Experts differentiate language skills between receptive and expressive. Receptive language is the child’s ability to understand words. Expressive language is the child’s ability to effectively communicate.
There are many ways to help children develop language. It is important to know that children learn language based on their own personalities and experiences. There many also be environmental influences that affect language development. Parents should also consider that children with disabilities may have limited language proficiency.
There are many resources for parents that may help with any concerns they may have with the language development of their child.
www.asha.org American Speech and Language Hearing Association
References:
McDevitt, Teresa M. Child Development and Education, United States 2016
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