What is child-directed activity?

Child-directed activity refers to the way adults modify their language and behavior when interacting with children. It usually involves simplifying the vocabulary and sentence structures, enhancing vocal cues like higher pitch and slower, more deliberate speech, and increasing the use of gestures and exaggerated facial expressions.

Parents and caregivers often engage in child-directed activities to support early language acquisition, promote social engagement, and strengthen emotional connections with their children. Through this modified communication, they enhance the comprehensibility of language for young learners and create an engaging environment that fosters the child's cognitive and social development.