babies learn from sing-song speech

'Baby talk' is good for our language learning!

Speaking to babies in ‘sing-song’ speech – such as nursery rhymes – is the best way for them to learn how to talk, according to a new study. Linguists have long considered phonetics – the smallest sound elements of speech, typically represented by the alphabet – to be the foundation of language.

Babies Learn Language Best Through 'Sing-Song' Speech, Study Shows - Zenger News

As reported in the press:

Parents should speak to babies in sing-song speech to help them learn languages - Latest From ITV News

Speaking to babies in sing-song speech ‘helps them learn language’ | The Independent

Why nursery rhymes are best for your child's brain: Speaking in a sing-song voice helps babies to learn language, study finds | Daily Mail Online

Babies: Their Wonderful World - Exploring the science behind 'baby talk' - BBC Tiny Happy People

And here's some of the neuroscience:

Contrary to the belief that phonetic information is the foundation of language, this study reveals that rhythmic speech plays a crucial role in language acquisition during a child’s first months. Phonetic information is not reliably processed until around seven months of age, whereas rhythmic information helps babies recognize word boundaries from the start.

The study sheds light on language learning and its relation to dyslexia and developmental language disorders.

Key Facts:

1. Babies learn language more effectively through rhythmic speech, emphasizing word boundaries.
2. Phonetic information is not fully processed until around seven months of age.
3. Rhythmic information is a universal aspect of all languages and aids language development.

Source: University of Cambridge

Babies Learn Language Best Through Sing-Song Speech, Not Phonetics - Neuroscience News

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