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First words

In the first of a series on nurturing young children's communication skills, Opal Dunn considers how they acquire language and the vital role played by caring adults. Babies and toddlers are greatly motivated to learn. To learn effectively, however, they need to acquire language, as it is through language that they develop thinking. Language can only be acquired through interaction with supportive adults. From birth, babies start to interact with their family or carers, building up dialogue through which they gradually make sense of their world.

Babies and toddlers are greatly motivated to learn. To learn effectively, however, they need to acquire language, as it is through language that they develop thinking. Language can only be acquired through interaction with supportive adults. From birth, babies start to interact with their family or carers, building up dialogue through which they gradually make sense of their world.

Feel-good factor

Babies and toddlers function at their individual optimum levels when they feel good. Studies show that positive emotions help to make the vital brain connections necessary for development; on the other hand, stress and anxiety are likely to produce disruptive chemical reactions which can sometimes even block connections.

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