title: A time frame of critical/sensitive periods of language development.
abstract: By a focus on three essential elements of language, phonology, semantics, and syntax, a time frame for critical/sensitive periods of language development is presented as a model of central auditory nervous system flexibility. Several studies support the hypothesis that the critical/sensitive period of phonology is from the sixth month of fetal life through the 12th month of infancy. Data indicates that the critical/sensitive periods for syntax runs through the fourth year of life, and for semantics through the 15th or 16th year of life. The data indicate that there is a time dependent series of functions in sequence that is based on responsive adaptations made by the CNS to psychophysical and electrophysiological stimuli.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryhgology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 Eat 210 ht Street, 10467-2490 Bronx, NY USA.
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Ruben
keywords: Language development; critical/sensitive periods; phonology; semantics; syntax