An expert from KFU explained why mother tongue affects child' brain development

A study published by scholars from University of Washington in 2019 suggested that parental language is beneficial for child’ language development. Furthermore, simplified syntax and slower tempo give a child an opportunity for social interaction.

Evgeniya Shishova, associate professor from the Educational Psychology Department of the Institute of Psychology and Education clarified why the first language develops an infant’s brain.

Psycholinguist defined “parental language” as a style of speaking to attract a child’ attention (stretched syllables, simple words, etc.) It eases children’s language acquisition. Verbal input and the positive tone of parents’ speech positively affect a child’s growth.

However, it is important to remember that “parental language” is only effective for children before age 3. This is related to the fact that the sensitive period for language is up to age 3. Language development during this period is essential for a child’s mental development.