Child Development and Learning Focused on Language DevelopmentThis essay is about the development and learning of a child, focusing primarily on language development. It will describe the main stages of developmental "milestones" and the key concepts involved in children developing their language skills, discussing language acquisition and social learning theory. The essay will also examine the major theorists involved in the development of language, primarily Vygotsky and Chomsky, and how these theories have impacted the way society views language and its implementation in schools. The essay will describe the factors affecting language development, both biological and environmental. While also discussing key arguments among theorists, one of them being the debate between nature and nurture, and how these play a role in teaching in schools. Development is defined as the process of change, a pattern that occurs from birth throughout the individual's life (Keenan & Evans, 2009). In the UK, it is usual to cover child development between birth and nineteen years of age. Development is often classified into different areas of development; physical, intellectual, linguistic, emotional and social. Smidt (2006) suggests that all areas of development are interrelated. Development must therefore be approached from a holistic perspective; while looking at one area of ​​development, all areas of development must be considered. “Holistic ideology values ​​the whole child, understanding the young child as an individual in the context of his or her family, community and culture” Wood (1998). With this in mind, practitioners need to be aware of the child's past. Children generally progress. through a set of stages, unless a child has additional knowledge...... middle of paper ...... article/nature-nurture/Schaffer, R. (1996) Oxford: Blackwell Publishers. Schaffer. , R. (2004). Presentation of child psychology. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing Ltd. Smidt, S. (2006). The Developing Child in the 21st Century. The Communication Trust (2011). . London: The Communication Trust. Tizzard and Hughes. (2002). Young Children Learning 2nd edition Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Walkup (2008). In B.a. 132 - 149). Harlow: Heinemann. Welham (October 11, 2013). England scores poorly on adult skills and why children shine at language learning. Retrieved from The Guardian: http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/teacher-blog/2013/oct/11/maths-english-adults-oecd-ranking Wood, D. (1998). How children think and learn. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers.