Language Acquisition

The process by which humans develop the ability to perceive, produce, and use language to communicate. In deaf children, language acquisition presents unique challenges: 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents, and without early exposure to an accessible language (such as sign language), children may miss the critical period for language development — a window during which the brain is optimally prepared to acquire linguistic skills. Delayed language acquisition can have lasting effects on literacy, cognitive development, and social skills, making early and consistent language exposure through sign language, cochlear implants, or both essential for deaf children's development.