LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Language development is a continuum that begins with receptive language (understanding of language) and progresses to expressive language (how we use words and sentences to communicate as well as facial affect, tone and voice inflection). The next step in language development is the ability to read; the final step in the development sequence is the ability to write.
All children follow this sequence in developing language skills, although not always at the same pace. Between birth and six months of age, a child will respond to sounds and changes in vocal tone. Expressive language at this time consists of vocalizations that contain no real consonants or vowel productions but seem almost like the sounds adults make.
By one year of age, a child will listen when spoken to and can recognize words for common items. They also begin to respond to requests. The one year old will begin to use true words – single productions that contain a clear vowel sound and are used specifically in conversation with another.
Between one and two years of age, receptively a child will follow one-step directions, understand simple questions and listen to simple stories, songs and rhymes. Expressively the child says more words every month and by eighteen months should be putting two words together.
The age span of two years to three years brings an increased ability to follow directions, listen for longer periods of time and understand differences in meaning. By the age of three years, the typical child is using more than one thousand words and can understand even more. A three-year-old should be able to talk about events that have happened or will happen in addition to events in the present.
Three years to four years of age is a big year in language development. Children in this age range should be able to answer simple WH questions. Most of their sentences will consist of four or more words and pronoun usage should be correct. Children of this age are able to understand perspective which is illustrated by their use of different vocal register and intonation for animals/younger children versus parents/other adults.
By the age of five years, children are “mini adults” in terms of their language skills. The five-year-old understands and uses indirect language and hints as well as responds to clarification requests. They use varied sentence structure, correct word endings, and use language to get what they want or need.
If you have concerns regarding your child’s language development, the professionals at C.C.I.C., Inc. can help.
Call our main office central intake number to schedule an appointment. 513-771-7655