What is child-directed speech characterized by?

Child-directed speech, often referred to as "baby talk," is characterized by a high-pitched, simplified, and repetitive manner of speaking that adults use when communicating with infants. This unique speech pattern helps to capture the child's attention and aids in language development. The high pitch is engaging for babies and is thought to promote their responsiveness to verbal communication. Simplification involves using basic vocabulary and shorter sentences, which makes it easier for infants to understand. Repetition reinforces learning, as children often need to hear words and phrases multiple times before they can comprehend and eventually use them.

This interactive mode of communication not only makes the exchange more enjoyable for both the adult and the child but also plays a crucial role in helping infants acquire language skills. By providing a clear and exaggerated form of speech, caregivers support early linguistic development, making this style essential in the foundational stages of learning.