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Early home learning environment and children's concurrent and longitudinal language development
1International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Studies, Tokyo, Japan.
Journal of Child Language
|June 11, 2025
Summary
A stimulating home learning environment (HLE) at age 3 is linked to better vocabulary and grammar skills in young children. This positive association extends to receptive language development throughout childhood.
Area of Science:
- Child Development
- Linguistics
- Early Childhood Education
Background:
- The home learning environment (HLE) encompasses various caregiver-child interactions crucial for early development.
- Understanding the impact of HLE on language acquisition is vital for educational and parenting interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between the home learning environment at 3 years of age and children's vocabulary skills.
- To assess both concurrent and longitudinal associations between HLE and language development.
Main Methods:
- HLE was assessed at 3 years of age, including activities like storytelling, reading, and play.
- Children's vocabulary, grammar, and language skills were measured concurrently and longitudinally from 5 to 9 years of age.
Main Results:
- A higher HLE score at 3 years was associated with better expressive vocabulary and grammar concurrently.
- Longitudinally, a higher HLE score predicted improved receptive language skills from ages 5 to 9.
Conclusions:
- The home learning environment is a significant factor in children's early language development.
- Early HLE positively influences concurrent and later language skills, highlighting the importance of home-based learning activities.
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