Learning Language
Children begin very early in life to acquire language skills. Language helps children gain independence, interact with others and participate in the surrounding culture. It plays a role in social interactions and expression of emotion, as well as learning.
Most children follow a sequence of language development: crying and cooing, babbling, first words and first sentences. By the age of 5 most children have developed a proficiency in oral language and use it effectively to accomplish their purposes and meet their needs.
Even very young children are soothed by the mere voices of loved ones. Adults instinctively chant and carry on casual conversations with children – whether or not they answer or even before they are able to understand. Children tune in more than we sometimes realize. The language they hear is the raw material from which their language develops – and through which most of their learning about the world takes place.
Children learn a lot when adults simply talk to them in the course of daily activities such as cooking, bathing and doing chores. While riding in the car or on a bus – or even pushing the shopping cart – parents can comment on what they see along the way. And there is a fringe benefit to keeping up running conversations: the child is less likely to get bored and misbehave.
When you plan a family outing or special event, talk about it with your child beforehand and afterward. Anticipating and recalling experiences not only promote children’s language development but also increases their knowledge and understanding.
Songs, finger plays and nursery rhymes are especially good for introducing children to the patters and rhythms of language. And being read to is a real joy! When we take time to read aloud and converse with our children, they learn to value language – as well as our company.
***Letter borrowed from Tracy Fulton, New Westminister School District***