Language Development

Children master language quickly, aided by biological predisposition and reinforcement.

Skinner proposed language learning through reinforcement, while Chomsky argued for biologically determined mechanisms.

The critical period for language acquisition peaks early in life, with proficiency decreasing with age. Younger children learn new languages more easily than adults.

Language development starts early, even before birth. Newborns prefer their mother's voice and can distinguish between their mother's language and others.

A child in the babbling stage may produce repeated single syllables, alone or with caregivers. Babies exposed to sign language can also babble with their hands.

Children utter their first word between one year and 18 months, using single words to convey larger meanings. For example, "cookie" might mean they want a cookie or are identifying one.

As vocabulary grows, children form simple sentences and quickly acquire new words. They understand language rules, sometimes making mistakes like saying "gooses" instead of "geese."