ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Child-directed speech

Child-directed speech is the way grown-ups talk to children like you who are still learning how to speak. When adults talk to kids, they use special words and a pitch that is higher and softer than their normal speaking voice. They also repeat themselves and use simple vocabulary.

Why do they talk like this? Well, it is because children who are still learning how to speak need to hear words that are easy to understand. Children learn words by listening, and the simpler the words, the easier it is for them to learn. When adults speak slowly and use shorter sentences, it also helps children to follow what is being said more easily.

Have you ever noticed that adults tend to change their tone of voice and use more facial expressions when they talk to babies? This is also part of child-directed speech. By making eye contact with children and using body gestures, adults help children to focus on what is being said and learn more quickly.

In summary, child-directed speech is a special way that grown-ups talk to children to help them learn and understand language easily. They use simple words, slower speech, and more facial expressions to keep children engaged and support their language development.
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