Language acquisition begins before your baby speaks his/her first words, before jargon, babbling and vocalizations. Communication begins day one of your child's life. First glances, touch, smells, sounds are all paramount in many facets of his/her development. There are several precursors to language that are essential for healthy development.
Perhaps the most important is the relationship between you and your child. Most importantly, your child is dependent on you to make certain all his/her basic needs are met; nurishment, safety, health, comfort. It is your responsibility to create a safe, loving, nurturing environment for your child. In such an environment a child will feel comfortable to explore their surroundings. In the process of exploration, your child will begin to realize his or her impact on their world. This valuable understanding is paramount in the development of language. Once your child realizes that he or she could make things happen they will look to your response for validation. This non- verbal connection to their caretaker, the ability to feel engaged and connected through facial expressions, eye contact, body language, touch, is your child's first experience with expression and communication.
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