What should be the primary focus of early language intervention for at-risk infants?

• A. Training primary caregivers to facilitate language learning
• B. Establishing object permanence through play activities
• C. Creating readiness activities in the context of play
• D. Enhancing social communication through play activities

Answer: (A)

Empowering caregivers to facilitate language learning is the primary focus because infants pick up language mainly through everyday interactions with the people around them. When caregivers are trained, they learn how to create language-rich moments in daily routines, respond promptly to the infant’s attempts to communicate, and provide models, expansions, and scaffolding that support vocabulary growth and the development of communication skills. This coaching approach helps ensure that language opportunities occur consistently in natural settings, which is more likely to lead to lasting gains than isolated activities.

Other options target important areas but less directly influence early language learning. Object permanence through play focuses on cognitive development, not language. Readiness activities in the context of play aim at preparing for later schooling rather than boosting language skills now. Enhancing social communication through play is beneficial, but without guiding caregivers on how to elicit and model language during those interactions, the potential impact is limited.