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How does language begin? There’s a lot of important growth and development that occurs during the 45 month window from prenatal to age three. But among infancy’s greatest accomplishments is language acquisition. So over the coming week I’m going to dedicate this space to a series of posts on... the sequential growth of language, which you may be surprised to learn begins even before birth. As your baby’s hearing activates between 18-20 weeks of gestation, they begin hearing their first sounds: Mom’s heartbeat, digestive rumblings, and voice. As you might imagine, sound isn’t crystal clear in the amniotic sac. (It’s not a perfect comparison, but consider how your own hearing changes under water in a swimming pool. You can still hear, but the sounds are muffled and significantly degraded.) For this and other reasons, your baby isn’t absorbing specific vocabulary at this point, but there’s little question that they are beginning to familiarize themselves with not only the tones/sound of their mother’s voice, but the distinct rhythms and patterns of her native language. We’re still only beginning to understand prenatal learning, but research demonstrates that in the minutes and hours immediately after birth, newborns already recognize their mother’s voice and can distinguish (and prefer) their own native language. That’s right: at birth babies’ brains have already begun organizing themselves around their mothers’ native languages. Pretty remarkable, no? It’s the first step in a miraculous process by which young children acquire complex linguistic ability over a period of just months. As for this precious little one, just minutes old, watch how he calms from a cry to an instant silence when exposed to the clear and familiar sound of his mother’s voice. Tomorrow we’ll look at the earliest forms of vocalization. This beautiful video was shared to YT by @lashaviouskirk9862.show more

Dan Wuori

148,157 subscribers

121,987 views • 1 year ago •via X (Twitter)

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10 Comments

Mariana P.T.1 year ago

Does that mean that if a mom is actively speaking more than one language, she is preparing their brains to do the same?

Dan Wuori1 year ago

It does!

Severin1 year ago

It is terrible that in many countries the newborns are taken away from their mothers after birth when what they need most is to be close. The minutes and hours after birth are so important for the bond and future self-confidence in life.

Getupowitha1 year ago

@Lauralols Now imagine that baby being taken away and handed to someone who bought them. That's surrogacy for you.

Lilith1 year ago

I read somewhere that babies do hear their mothers' voice pretty clearly and even in stereo because it is transferred through the bones of her pelvis, and that this is the reason why it is so much more familiar than all the other voices, which they hear only through the belly.

Very Insignificant Person1 year ago

Amazing to see just how instantly a newborn can recognise his or her mother’s voice, even though the sound of that voice has been muffled in utero. All this was a blur when I saw it firsthand!

Oh_la_Caro1 year ago

So best time to start singing them lullabies is during pregnancy 🥰

Dan Wuori1 year ago

Yes, The post was already getting long, so I left out the research about lullabies... but my book addresses the fac that newborns soothe preferentially to lullabies to which they were exposed in utero, but immediately after birth and months later. It's just fascinating!

Laura Wiley Haynes1 year ago

Beautiful!!!

Dan Wuori1 year ago

I love this video so much.

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Your baby is born already knowing the sound of your voice and those of close family members. As their hearing develops, babies become acquainted with all kinds of sounds in the womb - from their mother’s heartbeat and digestive rumblings to the muffled (but distinct) sound of her voice. Beginning around the 23rd week of gestation, they also begin taking in sounds from the outside - with research suggesting that newborns can distinguish the sounds and rhythms of their mothers’ native languages and more readily soothe to familiar lullabies to which they were exposed in utero. While fathers and siblings obviously lack the benefit of the internal amplification system associated with mother’s voice - their voices can also become a familiar and comforting sound for baby. It just takes time and exposure. I was so touched by this video of little Jason speaking to his sister in utero. It’s remarkable not only because of the tender way he addresses his unborn sibling, but also because of the compassion he shows for his mother, who is experiencing painful contractions. Jason explains that their mother loves them and even tries to strike a bargain in exchange for her tender handling by the baby. Simply beautiful. Talk to your bump. Read. Sing. It’s not too early. This lovely video was shared to IG by mslamour.

Your baby is born already knowing the sound of your voice and those of close family members. As their hearing develops, babies become acquainted with all kinds of sounds in the womb - from their mother’s heartbeat and digestive rumblings to the muffled (but distinct) sound of her voice. Beginning around the 23rd week of gestation, they also begin taking in sounds from the outside - with research suggesting that newborns can distinguish the sounds and rhythms of their mothers’ native languages and more readily soothe to familiar lullabies to which they were exposed in utero. While fathers and siblings obviously lack the benefit of the internal amplification system associated with mother’s voice - their voices can also become a familiar and comforting sound for baby. It just takes time and exposure. I was so touched by this video of little Jason speaking to his sister in utero. It’s remarkable not only because of the tender way he addresses his unborn sibling, but also because of the compassion he shows for his mother, who is experiencing painful contractions. Jason explains that their mother loves them and even tries to strike a bargain in exchange for her tender handling by the baby. Simply beautiful. Talk to your bump. Read. Sing. It’s not too early. This lovely video was shared to IG by mslamour.

Dan Wuori

110,614 views • 2 years ago

Do babies develop accents even before they can speak conventionally? The short answer is yes… and these linguistic markers begin even sooner than you might think. So many of you tagged me in this video yesterday featuring an infant that babbles with the same Scouse accent as his mother. Other than “no” he doesn’t speak a single conventional word, but listen to how the rhythm and intonation of his vocalizations mirror those to which he is exposed daily. As hearing becomes functional during the third trimester, infants are exposed to the distinct patterns of their mothers’ native language - with studies suggesting newborns can already distinguish (and prefer) what will become their native tongue only hours after birth. Incredibly this learning doesn’t wait until the babbling stage to evidence itself. Research suggests that even the cries of newborns reflect this preference. That’s right: babies cry with an accent. One major study on the topic showed that French babies cry with a rising intonation, while German infants favor a falling melody - both reflecting the patterns of their native languages. We’re only just beginning to understand the deep learning that begins in utero. It’s just more evidence that the period from prenatal to three is the most critical window in all of human development. This little Liverpudlian was shared to TT by iamcustardpot.

Do babies develop accents even before they can speak conventionally? The short answer is yes… and these linguistic markers begin even sooner than you might think. So many of you tagged me in this video yesterday featuring an infant that babbles with the same Scouse accent as his mother. Other than “no” he doesn’t speak a single conventional word, but listen to how the rhythm and intonation of his vocalizations mirror those to which he is exposed daily. As hearing becomes functional during the third trimester, infants are exposed to the distinct patterns of their mothers’ native language - with studies suggesting newborns can already distinguish (and prefer) what will become their native tongue only hours after birth. Incredibly this learning doesn’t wait until the babbling stage to evidence itself. Research suggests that even the cries of newborns reflect this preference. That’s right: babies cry with an accent. One major study on the topic showed that French babies cry with a rising intonation, while German infants favor a falling melody - both reflecting the patterns of their native languages. We’re only just beginning to understand the deep learning that begins in utero. It’s just more evidence that the period from prenatal to three is the most critical window in all of human development. This little Liverpudlian was shared to TT by iamcustardpot.

Dan Wuori

2,986,849 views • 2 years ago

Even before they enter the world, your baby is listening. Research suggests that our senses activate between 24-26 weeks of gestation, with the sound of our mothers’ heartbeats and voices among the very first things we experience as humans. Around 30 weeks babies begin hearing sounds from outside of the womb (muffled though they may be), making the third trimester a wonderful opportunity for dads to begin bonding with their soon-to-be newborns. This dad, shared to TT by matchingcouple101, has just the right idea: Talk, read and sing to your bump. At birth your baby will know and find comfort in the sound of your voice.

Even before they enter the world, your baby is listening. Research suggests that our senses activate between 24-26 weeks of gestation, with the sound of our mothers’ heartbeats and voices among the very first things we experience as humans. Around 30 weeks babies begin hearing sounds from outside of the womb (muffled though they may be), making the third trimester a wonderful opportunity for dads to begin bonding with their soon-to-be newborns. This dad, shared to TT by matchingcouple101, has just the right idea: Talk, read and sing to your bump. At birth your baby will know and find comfort in the sound of your voice.

Dan Wuori

12,181 views • 1 year ago

Your baby learns to speak - not just from listening - but from watching. 👀 I’ve written many times about the keen observational powers of babies. Infants are expert observers of their parents’ faces, which (among other lessons) provide important clues as to how mom and dad manage to make those wonderful sounds that come out of their mouths. But I’ve rarely seen this point better illustrated than in this fantastic video shared to TT by goldenlvngz. Watch carefully and you’ll note that our hero’s eyes remain laser focused on Mom’s mouth. It’s not as simple as hearing the word “mama” and replicating it quite yet. First there’s the question of just how exactly one uses their mouth to make the “ma” sound. Watch as baby makes multiple, silent attempts to mimic the movement of mom’s mouth, before attempting to voice the word himself. The first couple tries produce a visually similar sound: “ba.” But after several more attempts and a little more modeling from Mom, the sound rings out at last: “Ma.” One of the most interesting videos I think I’ve ever shared. A fascinating window on his language learning.

Your baby learns to speak - not just from listening - but from watching. 👀 I’ve written many times about the keen observational powers of babies. Infants are expert observers of their parents’ faces, which (among other lessons) provide important clues as to how mom and dad manage to make those wonderful sounds that come out of their mouths. But I’ve rarely seen this point better illustrated than in this fantastic video shared to TT by goldenlvngz. Watch carefully and you’ll note that our hero’s eyes remain laser focused on Mom’s mouth. It’s not as simple as hearing the word “mama” and replicating it quite yet. First there’s the question of just how exactly one uses their mouth to make the “ma” sound. Watch as baby makes multiple, silent attempts to mimic the movement of mom’s mouth, before attempting to voice the word himself. The first couple tries produce a visually similar sound: “ba.” But after several more attempts and a little more modeling from Mom, the sound rings out at last: “Ma.” One of the most interesting videos I think I’ve ever shared. A fascinating window on his language learning.

Dan Wuori

102,157 views • 1 year ago

Your baby learns to speak - not just from listening - but from watching. 👀 I’ve written many times about the keen observational powers of babies. Infants are expert observers of their parents’ faces, which (among other lessons) provide important clues as to how mom and dad manage to make those wonderful sounds that come out of their mouths. But I’ve rarely seen this point better illustrated than in this fantastic video shared to TT by goldenlvngz. Watch carefully and you’ll note that our hero’s eyes remain laser focused on Mom’s mouth. It’s not as simple as hearing the word “mama” and replicating it quite yet. First there’s the question of just how exactly one uses their mouth to make the “ma” sound. Watch as baby makes multiple, silent attempts to mimic the movement of mom’s mouth, before attempting to voice the word himself. The first couple tries produce a visually similar sound: “ba.” But after several more attempts and a little more modeling from Mom, the sound rings out at last: “Ma.” One of the most interesting videos I think I’ve ever shared. A fascinating window on his language learning.

Your baby learns to speak - not just from listening - but from watching. 👀 I’ve written many times about the keen observational powers of babies. Infants are expert observers of their parents’ faces, which (among other lessons) provide important clues as to how mom and dad manage to make those wonderful sounds that come out of their mouths. But I’ve rarely seen this point better illustrated than in this fantastic video shared to TT by goldenlvngz. Watch carefully and you’ll note that our hero’s eyes remain laser focused on Mom’s mouth. It’s not as simple as hearing the word “mama” and replicating it quite yet. First there’s the question of just how exactly one uses their mouth to make the “ma” sound. Watch as baby makes multiple, silent attempts to mimic the movement of mom’s mouth, before attempting to voice the word himself. The first couple tries produce a visually similar sound: “ba.” But after several more attempts and a little more modeling from Mom, the sound rings out at last: “Ma.” One of the most interesting videos I think I’ve ever shared. A fascinating window on his language learning.

Dan Wuori

121,293 views • 1 year ago

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Dan Wuori

188,623 views • 2 years ago

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Prepare to be dazzled. Young children are the world’s most efficient language learners - and easily master the challenge of bilingualism in supportive settings. Check out little Sam here as he switches back and forth seamlessly between Polish (the native language of his mother) and English (his father). Research suggests that bilingual/multilingual infants readily distinguish between the languages to which they are exposed, without any evidence of confusion. They are adept at recognizing the unique rhythms associated with each language - and can even visually discriminate between the unique (and often subtle) facial movements associated with different languages. Contrast this with the challenge of language learning as adults. How many of us took a foreign language in high school or college but cannot even begin to claim Sam’s level of fluency? 🎥 babysamanddad TT

Dan Wuori

442,816 views • 3 years ago

Now here’s a little guy who LOVES his pacifier. This is a topic I’ve avoided to date, largely because there are so many varying opinions on the matter. For me the question isn’t so much whether to use one, but for how long. Infants are born with a strong sucking reflex and pacifiers can help them to soothe and sleep. There’s even some evidence to suggest that sleeping with pacifiers might reduce the risk of SIDS. In short: for babies (up to a year), I’m a fan. But it’s not uncommon to see children with pacifiers well into toddlerhood, and in some cases, even beyond. And here I’d raise some cautions. Children who rely heavily on pacifiers may be more prone to middle ear infections. And dentists note that prolonged pacifier use can affect your child’s teeth and create bite issues. Perhaps most importantly is their potential to impact expressive language development. Your child’s ability to speak is an important one. After a point, language shapes not only the content of our thinking, but the very structure of our cognition. By otherwise occupying the mouth over long periods of time, pacifiers may slow language development by limiting opportunities for expression. Speaking with a pacifier in the mouth can also lead to distortion of speech sounds (even when they aren’t in the mouth). All told, I’m an advocate for beginning to wean off of pacifiers at around one year of age. The transition can be difficult - but not nearly as challenging as for a child who has become dependent over a period of years. Do/did you use pacifiers with your child? Why or why not? How did you help transition away from their use? This sweet little one (for whom a pacifier is still completely age appropriate) was shared to IG by voroujakeman.

Now here’s a little guy who LOVES his pacifier. This is a topic I’ve avoided to date, largely because there are so many varying opinions on the matter. For me the question isn’t so much whether to use one, but for how long. Infants are born with a strong sucking reflex and pacifiers can help them to soothe and sleep. There’s even some evidence to suggest that sleeping with pacifiers might reduce the risk of SIDS. In short: for babies (up to a year), I’m a fan. But it’s not uncommon to see children with pacifiers well into toddlerhood, and in some cases, even beyond. And here I’d raise some cautions. Children who rely heavily on pacifiers may be more prone to middle ear infections. And dentists note that prolonged pacifier use can affect your child’s teeth and create bite issues. Perhaps most importantly is their potential to impact expressive language development. Your child’s ability to speak is an important one. After a point, language shapes not only the content of our thinking, but the very structure of our cognition. By otherwise occupying the mouth over long periods of time, pacifiers may slow language development by limiting opportunities for expression. Speaking with a pacifier in the mouth can also lead to distortion of speech sounds (even when they aren’t in the mouth). All told, I’m an advocate for beginning to wean off of pacifiers at around one year of age. The transition can be difficult - but not nearly as challenging as for a child who has become dependent over a period of years. Do/did you use pacifiers with your child? Why or why not? How did you help transition away from their use? This sweet little one (for whom a pacifier is still completely age appropriate) was shared to IG by voroujakeman.

Dan Wuori

335,765 views • 2 years ago

Your baby understands more than you might think. And this is especially true when it comes to language. I’ve written extensively over the years about the gulf between receptive language (that which we understand) and expressive language (that which we can speak), but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen any better illustration than this fantastic video, shared with me by Phoebe Arslanagić-Little. In it, her 10-month-old daughter - whose current expressive language is limited mostly to “dada” - correctly identifies 8 African animals, none of which are yet a part of her spoken vocabulary. It’s an amazing illustration of the order in which we acquire language (receptive before expressive) and a powerful reminder that our little ones are taking in the world more extensively than we sometime give them credit for. (This can cut both ways, incidentally, so never assume they aren’t taking in adult content/discussions just because they’re too little. Once that expressive language catches up you might be surprised to discover just how extensive their adult vocabulary can be. 😃). And kudos to grandma, who enabled this - not by drilling our hero on animal names, but by narrating their joint playtimes. Just fantastic!

Your baby understands more than you might think. And this is especially true when it comes to language. I’ve written extensively over the years about the gulf between receptive language (that which we understand) and expressive language (that which we can speak), but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen any better illustration than this fantastic video, shared with me by Phoebe Arslanagić-Little. In it, her 10-month-old daughter - whose current expressive language is limited mostly to “dada” - correctly identifies 8 African animals, none of which are yet a part of her spoken vocabulary. It’s an amazing illustration of the order in which we acquire language (receptive before expressive) and a powerful reminder that our little ones are taking in the world more extensively than we sometime give them credit for. (This can cut both ways, incidentally, so never assume they aren’t taking in adult content/discussions just because they’re too little. Once that expressive language catches up you might be surprised to discover just how extensive their adult vocabulary can be. 😃). And kudos to grandma, who enabled this - not by drilling our hero on animal names, but by narrating their joint playtimes. Just fantastic!

Dan Wuori

148,397 views • 8 months ago

From 0 to 60 in X seconds… For years that’s been one of the benchmarks used by auto manufacturers to describe the rapid acceleration of the world’s most powerful cars. It’s also a perfect metaphor to wrap up two weeks of posts focused on the language acquisition of young children. Babies enter the world with cries and gurgles… advance rapidly to complex forms of babbling, and generally speak their first words within a year. Their vocabularies growing exponentially, they begin stringing simple sentences together shortly thereafter and by two years of age, become surprisingly powerful little communicators. From 0 to 60 in just a little more than 24 months. It’s really amazing to witness. I began this series with video of a baby’s first sounds, captured in a hospital maternity ward. So what better way to conclude it than with an example of the end result? I got such a kick out of listening to this little one, age two, discussing her exasperation over the family dog’s need to bark at… well, everything. Check out not only her complex vocabulary and grammar, but her expression and tone… The way her personality is exposed through her vocalizations. Listening to her it’s hard to imagine that roughly 18 months prior she’d not yet spoken a single conventional word. Talk about acceleration! 🏎️ Of course this isn’t truly the end point for language development. Her vocabulary will continue to grow throughout her lifetime, for example… but the foundations of her lifelong success have been laid… transforming not only her ability to communicate but the very ways she is able to think. Language is arguably humankind’s most powerful tool. And it’s mastered rapidly by its most efficient and precocious little learners. This fantastic video was shared to IG by harperraeels.

From 0 to 60 in X seconds… For years that’s been one of the benchmarks used by auto manufacturers to describe the rapid acceleration of the world’s most powerful cars. It’s also a perfect metaphor to wrap up two weeks of posts focused on the language acquisition of young children. Babies enter the world with cries and gurgles… advance rapidly to complex forms of babbling, and generally speak their first words within a year. Their vocabularies growing exponentially, they begin stringing simple sentences together shortly thereafter and by two years of age, become surprisingly powerful little communicators. From 0 to 60 in just a little more than 24 months. It’s really amazing to witness. I began this series with video of a baby’s first sounds, captured in a hospital maternity ward. So what better way to conclude it than with an example of the end result? I got such a kick out of listening to this little one, age two, discussing her exasperation over the family dog’s need to bark at… well, everything. Check out not only her complex vocabulary and grammar, but her expression and tone… The way her personality is exposed through her vocalizations. Listening to her it’s hard to imagine that roughly 18 months prior she’d not yet spoken a single conventional word. Talk about acceleration! 🏎️ Of course this isn’t truly the end point for language development. Her vocabulary will continue to grow throughout her lifetime, for example… but the foundations of her lifelong success have been laid… transforming not only her ability to communicate but the very ways she is able to think. Language is arguably humankind’s most powerful tool. And it’s mastered rapidly by its most efficient and precocious little learners. This fantastic video was shared to IG by harperraeels.

Dan Wuori

101,413 views • 1 year ago

When and how does a baby’s love begin? The truth is that your baby begins falling in love with you even before you meet, becoming aware of (and learning to prefer) your voice during the final months in utero. (It may feel strange, but seriously, talk to your bump.) After birth, the attachment process begins in earnest. Your engaged and responsive caretaking, your tenderness, your smiles, your kisses, and even your smell draw your newborn closer and closer. And there is NOTHING your baby loves to look at more than YOUR face. Their adoring gaze is a sign of your secure attachment. But make no mistake, your face is also your baby’s most important teacher. Your baby studies you carefully - looking for clues about your emotional state (which informs what theirs should be), how you form language, and so much more. I’ve rarely seen a video that capture’s an infant’s love/attachment as beautifully as this one from TheRiceFam4Life on TT. Those eyes tell you all you need to know about the special bond this one has with her father. Just beautiful.

When and how does a baby’s love begin? The truth is that your baby begins falling in love with you even before you meet, becoming aware of (and learning to prefer) your voice during the final months in utero. (It may feel strange, but seriously, talk to your bump.) After birth, the attachment process begins in earnest. Your engaged and responsive caretaking, your tenderness, your smiles, your kisses, and even your smell draw your newborn closer and closer. And there is NOTHING your baby loves to look at more than YOUR face. Their adoring gaze is a sign of your secure attachment. But make no mistake, your face is also your baby’s most important teacher. Your baby studies you carefully - looking for clues about your emotional state (which informs what theirs should be), how you form language, and so much more. I’ve rarely seen a video that capture’s an infant’s love/attachment as beautifully as this one from TheRiceFam4Life on TT. Those eyes tell you all you need to know about the special bond this one has with her father. Just beautiful.

Dan Wuori

5,402,527 views • 3 years ago

Your baby understands language well before they can use it. Watch the reaction of these sweet toddler twins as their mother breaks into song. It’s not just that mom is singing. They seem to be lighting up in anticipation of its chorus: I LOVE YOU. Watch the little one on the right - whose eyebrows raise in anticipation of this loving message from their mother. It’s a fantastic reminder that receptive language (what we can hear and understand) precedes expressive language (what we can verbalize). And an important reminder not to forget that children understand the language spoken around them well before they can verbalize it themselves. The best rule of thumb: never assume your child is “too young to understand.” This sweet duo was shared to IG by babyjoyreels.

Your baby understands language well before they can use it. Watch the reaction of these sweet toddler twins as their mother breaks into song. It’s not just that mom is singing. They seem to be lighting up in anticipation of its chorus: I LOVE YOU. Watch the little one on the right - whose eyebrows raise in anticipation of this loving message from their mother. It’s a fantastic reminder that receptive language (what we can hear and understand) precedes expressive language (what we can verbalize). And an important reminder not to forget that children understand the language spoken around them well before they can verbalize it themselves. The best rule of thumb: never assume your child is “too young to understand.” This sweet duo was shared to IG by babyjoyreels.

Dan Wuori

48,036 views • 1 year ago

You probably know that reading with your baby is important. But do you know why? There’s actually a long list of reasons, but today let’s focus on one of the most important of them all: the development of a rich vocabulary. Your baby develops language by taking in the examples you provide. But the truth is that most of our day to day experiences can be a little mundane. That’s where books come in. Take a moment to consider this lovely father-daughter read aloud and all of the new language introduced. It’s not unreasonable to think this family might have a pet - likely a dog or a cat. But consider all the other animal words here, for example, that may not be a part of their daily experience. In just this short snippet alone, father and daughter discuss lambs, sheep, kittens, bunnies, monkeys, and lion cubs. Notice how dad makes a point of repeating the word “lamb” as our hero interacts with the fuzzy woolen material embedded in the board book. Notice too how he uses the opportunity to introduce additional words (ball and yarn) inspired by the pictures, even when not included in the text itself. In a little over a minute, dad introduces his daughter to a whole collection of words that they’d be unlikely to have discussed were it not for this time spent reading together. Now imagine the impact of daily reading over a period of years. Research consistently links vocabulary size with long term academic success. A rich vocabulary is also a tremendous advantage as children learn to read for themselves. Reading isn’t the only way to expose young children to a rich and varied vocabulary, of course. But it sure is a great one. Read with your children daily. It’s an investment in their future that you’ll never regret. This stellar example was shared to IG by lelah_and_lou.

You probably know that reading with your baby is important. But do you know why? There’s actually a long list of reasons, but today let’s focus on one of the most important of them all: the development of a rich vocabulary. Your baby develops language by taking in the examples you provide. But the truth is that most of our day to day experiences can be a little mundane. That’s where books come in. Take a moment to consider this lovely father-daughter read aloud and all of the new language introduced. It’s not unreasonable to think this family might have a pet - likely a dog or a cat. But consider all the other animal words here, for example, that may not be a part of their daily experience. In just this short snippet alone, father and daughter discuss lambs, sheep, kittens, bunnies, monkeys, and lion cubs. Notice how dad makes a point of repeating the word “lamb” as our hero interacts with the fuzzy woolen material embedded in the board book. Notice too how he uses the opportunity to introduce additional words (ball and yarn) inspired by the pictures, even when not included in the text itself. In a little over a minute, dad introduces his daughter to a whole collection of words that they’d be unlikely to have discussed were it not for this time spent reading together. Now imagine the impact of daily reading over a period of years. Research consistently links vocabulary size with long term academic success. A rich vocabulary is also a tremendous advantage as children learn to read for themselves. Reading isn’t the only way to expose young children to a rich and varied vocabulary, of course. But it sure is a great one. Read with your children daily. It’s an investment in their future that you’ll never regret. This stellar example was shared to IG by lelah_and_lou.

Dan Wuori

260,391 views • 2 years ago

Does your little one want to hear the same book over and over and over again? The repetition can be a little maddening for us as parents, but for children it’s actually very beneficial. Favorite books are not only familiar and comforting, but support vocabulary growth and - importantly - your child’s own participation in the reading experience. I just love this video of little Theo and his mom as they read Eric Carle’s Does a Kangaroo Have a Mother Too? Not only can you tell it’s a book they’ve read together many times, but the familiar, repetitive pattern of the text itself allows Theo to play a role in the reading. Watch as he provides an enthusiastic “YES!” at the beginning of each page. (Note too what a good job he does at matching his “yes” response to the appropriate point in the text itself. It’s the first thing said after each page is turned.) As for vocabulary growth, repeated exposure to new words helps children to internalize vocabulary more rapidly with one study suggesting that children are more likely to incorporate new vocabulary from a book read three times than from three different books read one time apiece. This fantastic little reader was shared to IG by theoriginal_captain.

Does your little one want to hear the same book over and over and over again? The repetition can be a little maddening for us as parents, but for children it’s actually very beneficial. Favorite books are not only familiar and comforting, but support vocabulary growth and - importantly - your child’s own participation in the reading experience. I just love this video of little Theo and his mom as they read Eric Carle’s Does a Kangaroo Have a Mother Too? Not only can you tell it’s a book they’ve read together many times, but the familiar, repetitive pattern of the text itself allows Theo to play a role in the reading. Watch as he provides an enthusiastic “YES!” at the beginning of each page. (Note too what a good job he does at matching his “yes” response to the appropriate point in the text itself. It’s the first thing said after each page is turned.) As for vocabulary growth, repeated exposure to new words helps children to internalize vocabulary more rapidly with one study suggesting that children are more likely to incorporate new vocabulary from a book read three times than from three different books read one time apiece. This fantastic little reader was shared to IG by theoriginal_captain.

Dan Wuori

30,162 views • 1 year ago

Infants are the world’s most accomplished language learners. As the process unfolds, children pass through stages of progressively more complex “babbling” before they begin using conventional words. But babbling isn’t limited to spoken language. Deaf children and the children of deaf parents pass through similar stages as they approximate the use of sign language - which brings us to this video, shared to IG by oursignedworld. Watch how locked in this little guy is as he “speaks” with his deaf father, observing dad’s sign language and then “babbling” back with his arms and hands. In time he will become both an accomplished signer and speaker. What a lovely example of language acquisition in process.

Infants are the world’s most accomplished language learners. As the process unfolds, children pass through stages of progressively more complex “babbling” before they begin using conventional words. But babbling isn’t limited to spoken language. Deaf children and the children of deaf parents pass through similar stages as they approximate the use of sign language - which brings us to this video, shared to IG by oursignedworld. Watch how locked in this little guy is as he “speaks” with his deaf father, observing dad’s sign language and then “babbling” back with his arms and hands. In time he will become both an accomplished signer and speaker. What a lovely example of language acquisition in process.

Dan Wuori

107,170 views • 1 year ago

Did you know there might be a second language on the Book of Mormon gold plates? Most Latter-day Saints have heard that the plates were written in Reformed Egyptian, but not as many people realize that the Book of Mormon started as essentially a different language first. And the relationship between these two languages, I believe, supports the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. What the Nephite language started as, is described in the first chapter of the book of Mormon as "the learning of the Jews and the language of the Egyptians." Scholars have theorized that this first language could contain a mix of Hebrew and Egyptian features. So the Book of Mormon writing may have started out looking something like this, a Judahite variety of Egyptian known as Palestinian Hieratic that is attested in Lehi and Nephi’s day. But languages don’t stay static. After hundreds of years, it seems this earlier Egyptian language evolved into a modified, or Reformed Egyptian, as Moroni calls it at the end of the book. So maybe something like this. Since the writings of Nephi and Mormon both appear to be included on plates that became the Book of Mormon, one would expect their languages to look different. And Martin Harris’s visit to Professor Charles Anthon may show evidence of this shift. New research reveals Anthon may have seen two different transcripts: one that resembled Egyptian—like at the beginning of the Book of Mormon— and another that was harder to identify, just like we’d expect from an evolving, reformed language. Language changing over time is totally natural—just look at how different English was a few hundred years ago! So this shift in the Book of Mormon’s language is exactly what we’d expect from an authentic, ancient record. If you want to learn more, read KnoWhy 774 at Scripture Central.

Did you know there might be a second language on the Book of Mormon gold plates? Most Latter-day Saints have heard that the plates were written in Reformed Egyptian, but not as many people realize that the Book of Mormon started as essentially a different language first. And the relationship between these two languages, I believe, supports the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. What the Nephite language started as, is described in the first chapter of the book of Mormon as "the learning of the Jews and the language of the Egyptians." Scholars have theorized that this first language could contain a mix of Hebrew and Egyptian features. So the Book of Mormon writing may have started out looking something like this, a Judahite variety of Egyptian known as Palestinian Hieratic that is attested in Lehi and Nephi’s day. But languages don’t stay static. After hundreds of years, it seems this earlier Egyptian language evolved into a modified, or Reformed Egyptian, as Moroni calls it at the end of the book. So maybe something like this. Since the writings of Nephi and Mormon both appear to be included on plates that became the Book of Mormon, one would expect their languages to look different. And Martin Harris’s visit to Professor Charles Anthon may show evidence of this shift. New research reveals Anthon may have seen two different transcripts: one that resembled Egyptian—like at the beginning of the Book of Mormon— and another that was harder to identify, just like we’d expect from an evolving, reformed language. Language changing over time is totally natural—just look at how different English was a few hundred years ago! So this shift in the Book of Mormon’s language is exactly what we’d expect from an authentic, ancient record. If you want to learn more, read KnoWhy 774 at Scripture Central.

ScripturePlus

11,129 views • 1 year ago

Here’s one of the most fascinating child development videos I’ve ever shared. As your baby learns language, they begin by approximating the examples you set. After a period of early experimentation with sound (including cries, coos and gurgles), infants begin babbling - making speech-like sounds (which often include components of conventional speech) that are - nonetheless - not yet conventionally meaningful. This babbling phase is a precursor to the use of formal words. And it happens in all languages. Including sign language. This video shows an infant (who, by the way, is not hearing impaired) “babbling” to her deaf grandparents. As they sign to her, she responds in kind, using her hands to approximate the signed communication that they are modeling. It’s a whole serve and return conversation, just as if they were conversing verbally. If you’ll watch carefully, you’ll note distinct turn taking. And - interestingly - that with her grandparents she largely avoids vocalizations, in favor of gesture. What a treat to see this rich example of bilingual language development. This fascinating video was shared to TT by mara_mccullough.

Here’s one of the most fascinating child development videos I’ve ever shared. As your baby learns language, they begin by approximating the examples you set. After a period of early experimentation with sound (including cries, coos and gurgles), infants begin babbling - making speech-like sounds (which often include components of conventional speech) that are - nonetheless - not yet conventionally meaningful. This babbling phase is a precursor to the use of formal words. And it happens in all languages. Including sign language. This video shows an infant (who, by the way, is not hearing impaired) “babbling” to her deaf grandparents. As they sign to her, she responds in kind, using her hands to approximate the signed communication that they are modeling. It’s a whole serve and return conversation, just as if they were conversing verbally. If you’ll watch carefully, you’ll note distinct turn taking. And - interestingly - that with her grandparents she largely avoids vocalizations, in favor of gesture. What a treat to see this rich example of bilingual language development. This fascinating video was shared to TT by mara_mccullough.

Dan Wuori

2,902,328 views • 2 years ago

At a time when non Bengalis in WB refuse to speak the native language and keep imposing their culture, and when Bengalis are shunning away their own language and culture, an Indian in far off Pahalgam not only speaks the language with grace but is seen selling the famous Kolkata biryani, the only one there. This is the beauty of India. And this is a lesson for shameless Bengalis who will do everything in their capacity to sabotage their own roots. Video : Instagram

At a time when non Bengalis in WB refuse to speak the native language and keep imposing their culture, and when Bengalis are shunning away their own language and culture, an Indian in far off Pahalgam not only speaks the language with grace but is seen selling the famous Kolkata biryani, the only one there. This is the beauty of India. And this is a lesson for shameless Bengalis who will do everything in their capacity to sabotage their own roots. Video : Instagram

BesuroTansen

15,104 views • 1 year ago

How does the presence of older siblings influence the development of language? This lovely video brought my mind immediately to research on the topic. There is some consensus that the presence of one or more siblings can correlate with slightly slower* language development among children who are not first born. This is because parents juggling the demands of multiple children generally have less time for one-on-one interaction. But research suggests that this the presence of a “cognitively sensitive” sibling can mitigate against such delays. What is “cognitively sensitive?” It’s this little guy. Notice how he not only takes time out to deliberately expose his newborn sister to language and vocabulary, but makes an effort to slow and simplify his language in recognition that he’s speaking with a baby. He shows the photos. He points (as he’s able) to match vocabulary with what’s on display. It’s like having a third, mini-parent. What a fantastic little teacher. *By the way, the delayed language often displayed by younger siblings is not anything to get too worked up about. Might they develop a little slower? In some cases yes. But do they catch up and close this gap? Also yes. In the long run, there’s also plenty of reason to believe that the presence of siblings can be advantageous. Though subsequent siblings may receive slightly less one-on-one time, they are often exposed to richer and more varied language due to the presence of older children in the home. What was your experience? This loving brother-sister pair was shared to IG by halesmoore.

How does the presence of older siblings influence the development of language? This lovely video brought my mind immediately to research on the topic. There is some consensus that the presence of one or more siblings can correlate with slightly slower* language development among children who are not first born. This is because parents juggling the demands of multiple children generally have less time for one-on-one interaction. But research suggests that this the presence of a “cognitively sensitive” sibling can mitigate against such delays. What is “cognitively sensitive?” It’s this little guy. Notice how he not only takes time out to deliberately expose his newborn sister to language and vocabulary, but makes an effort to slow and simplify his language in recognition that he’s speaking with a baby. He shows the photos. He points (as he’s able) to match vocabulary with what’s on display. It’s like having a third, mini-parent. What a fantastic little teacher. *By the way, the delayed language often displayed by younger siblings is not anything to get too worked up about. Might they develop a little slower? In some cases yes. But do they catch up and close this gap? Also yes. In the long run, there’s also plenty of reason to believe that the presence of siblings can be advantageous. Though subsequent siblings may receive slightly less one-on-one time, they are often exposed to richer and more varied language due to the presence of older children in the home. What was your experience? This loving brother-sister pair was shared to IG by halesmoore.

Dan Wuori

418,388 views • 2 years ago