Connecting Through Talk

How do responsive adultchild interactions influence early language development? How do a childs language skills develop in tandem with social-emotional development, executive function, and literacy? What are effective ways to help parents support their childs development? Uncover the answers to these questions in this fascinating book, which draws on current research to examine connections between language, social-emotional, and literacy development and profiles effective programs that support this development. Youll begin with a research-based examination of critical topics such as: How the brain develops in the first years of life Why parentchild attachment is fundamental to early development What responsive and language-rich parentchild exchanges look like How children learn the building blocks of language and literacy Which guiding principles professionals should follow for effective intervention Which economic arguments support early development Building on this foundational knowledge, the book gives you snapshots of more than a dozen programs that support language and literacy development by coaching parents and providing books for young children. Youll learn how these programs promote responsive adultchild interactions and expand childrens access to books, and youll get brief summaries of the research that demonstrates the success of each program. Essential reading for researchers, administrators, and educators, this synthesis of science and practical guidance will help you foster foundational language skills and nurture the healthy development of every young child.