What should be the primary focus of early language intervention for at-risk infants?

What should be the primary focus of early language intervention for at-risk infants?

• A. Establishing object permanence through play activities
• B. Training primary caregivers to facilitate language learning
• C. Creating readiness activities in the context of play
• D. Enhancing social communication through play activities

Answer: (B)

The primary focus of early language intervention for at-risk infants should be on training primary caregivers to facilitate language learning. This approach recognizes that caregivers are the primary sources of language exposure and interaction for infants. By equipping them with strategies and tools to support their child's language development, caregivers can create an enriching environment that encourages communication from an early age. When caregivers are trained to engage in responsive interactions, use enriched language, and provide meaningful input, it significantly enhances the child's language acquisition. This is crucial for building a strong foundation for later language skills, as children learn best through frequent and meaningful exchanges with their primary caregivers. While establishing object permanence, creating readiness activities, and enhancing social communication can also be important aspects of child development, they do not directly address the critical role that caregiver involvement plays in early language learning. Focusing on caregiver training ensures that the intervention is holistic and supportive, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to language growth.

The primary focus of early language intervention for at-risk infants should be on training primary caregivers to facilitate language learning. This approach recognizes that caregivers are the primary sources of language exposure and interaction for infants. By equipping them with strategies and tools to support their child's language development, caregivers can create an enriching environment that encourages communication from an early age.

When caregivers are trained to engage in responsive interactions, use enriched language, and provide meaningful input, it significantly enhances the child's language acquisition. This is crucial for building a strong foundation for later language skills, as children learn best through frequent and meaningful exchanges with their primary caregivers.

While establishing object permanence, creating readiness activities, and enhancing social communication can also be important aspects of child development, they do not directly address the critical role that caregiver involvement plays in early language learning. Focusing on caregiver training ensures that the intervention is holistic and supportive, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to language growth.