STAGES OF SPEECH DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN
Keywords:
Child language development; speech acquisition; pre-linguistic stage; babbling; vocabulary growth; grammar development; communicative competence.Abstract
The development of speech in children is a complex, multi-stage process that reflects the
interaction of biological, cognitive, and social factors. Each stage of speech development plays a
significant role in shaping communicative competence, beginning with pre-linguistic vocalizations and
gradually evolving into the use of structured language. Researchers emphasize that early speech
development is influenced by neurological maturity, exposure to language input, and social
interactions within the child’s environment. This article provides a brief overview of the main stages
of speech development, highlighting the transition from babbling to word formation, the emergence of
grammar, and the expansion of vocabulary. A clear understanding of these stages is essential for
educators, linguists, and parents to effectively support children’s linguistic growth and identify
possible developmental delays.
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