Family Income
Income and Children's Language Exposure
A key finding from this study is that children from wealthier families hear more language at home. In contrast, kids from low-income families often have less exposure to language. It’s important to recognize that financial resources can affect a child’s living situation, diet, and access to toys and books. This study shows that money also plays a role in shaping kids’ experiences.
Keep in mind that these are general trends, and there are exceptions! Some kids from affluent families may not hear much language, while some from less wealthy backgrounds may hear a lot. The main point is that, from a young age, some kids have more opportunities to play and learn, while others have fewer. Researchers studying brain development know that everyday experiences can significantly influence how children grow and learn. If we want to give every child a fair chance to learn important skills like language, we need to ensure they all have equal opportunities right from birth.
Reference
Lew-Williams, C., & Weisleder, A. (2017). How do little kids learn language? Frontiers for Young Minds, 5, 1-8. https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2017.00045
