There are several major theories that try to explain how very young children all around the world learn spoken language and each theory manages to explain something of the process. However, no single theory has a complete explanation for how young children tune into spoken language, learn vocabulary and grammar (from two or more languages for some children) and create their own unique phrases.
A recent academic article reviewing language research in The Psychologist concluded that, 'For too long, research has been influenced by grand theories. Instead we need to spend more time watching and listening to children.' (I wrote 'Yes!!!' in the margins of my copy.) The more practical observational research, often supported by video footage and accounts of individual children, has supported our understanding of what children manage to learn and how adults can best support them in the early years.
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