Genetic and environmental factors influence language development, and the measure in which nature and nurture impact the process has engendered a lot of debate over the years. Let’s explore how they impact language development in the under-threes and how parents can help their toddlers progress.

Nature

The term ‘nature’ covers the genetic and biological factors that influence language development. Some research has shown that children may be genetically predisposed to some speech or language delays. Research has also identified the specific genes that are associated with language development. FOXP2 has been linked to language development in both humans and animals, for example, and it is thought that this gene plays a role in the development of the part of the brain responsible for language processing.

Neuroplasticity and your child’s learning

The brain is plastic, so it can change its structure and function through experience and learning. Our neuroplasticity also allows us to adapt to new environments and recover from traumatic experiences.

An example of brain plasticity is the human ability to use other parts of the brain for speech and language when the commonly used areas are damaged. The left hemisphere is usually dominant in language processing when someone is right-handed, for example, but if it is damaged, the right hemisphere can sometimes take on some language functions.

Neuroplasticity involves changes in the connections between neurons, the growth of new neurons, and variations in the strength of existing connections. There is evidence that the brain can reorganise itself in response to learning. The acquisition of a skill, like learning to play a musical instrument or speak another language, is often used as an example of how the brain regions associated with that skill become more active and better connected. The brain’s plasticity is fundamental to our ability to learn and adapt. It also helps us recover from brain injuries and neurological disorders.

Nurture

While your child’s genes certainly impact language development, they cannot account for the complexity of language acquisition. We know that 'nurture'—or the environment that influences language development—is extremely important.

The term ‘nurture’ covers the sensory and language environment in which your child is growing, as well as their interactions with you and other people. Research has shown that

The sensory and language-rich environment that your toddler is exposed to is ‘nurture.’ So are the interactions they have with you and other people. There is also evidence that keeping your child’s environment language-rich (surrounding them with books and educational toys, for example) will make them more likely to refine their language skills early.

As we’ve mentioned earlier in our Unii Toddler Speech Journey, all the parents who speak and answer their children, as well as read and sing to them, are actively promoting their language development. In contrast, more isolated, less stimulated children are at greater risk of developing language delays and difficulties over time.

The simple interactions your toddler has with you and other caregivers can greatly enhance their development. Warm and enthusiastic communication, repetition of words, and regular praise make them more likely to develop speech and language skills.

It’s all about going back and forth, no matter how boring it may get for you. Toddlers can be especially eager to explain the world around them as though they didn’t live in it before they arrived. It costs nothing to reply to them and share in their excitement. It will increase their vocabulary and give them a greater understanding of context, as well as lots of confidence in their ability to communicate further.

What is the role of nature and nurture in toddler language development?

From Unii’s Toddler Speech Journey, we look at nature and nurture in language development.