Understanding Early Language Development in Children

The question asks us to identify the correct statement among the given options regarding language development in young children and babies.

Let's analyze each statement:

• Statement 1: Young children pick up the accent of those around them.

  This statement is generally considered correct. Children learn language, including pronunciation and accent, by imitating the sounds and speech patterns of the people they interact with regularly, such as parents, family members, and caregivers. This process is a natural part of language acquisition.

• Statement 2: Babies can’t hear voices from the time they are born.

  This statement is incorrect. Babies can hear sounds, including human voices, from before they are born. Their auditory system develops significantly during pregnancy, and they can recognize their mother's voice shortly after birth.

• Statement 3: Babies do not play with sound.

  This statement is incorrect. Babies engage in significant sound play, which is a crucial part of their language development. This includes cooing (making soft vowel sounds) and babbling (repeating consonant-vowel combinations like "ba-ba" or "ma-ma"). This sound play helps them practice using their vocal cords and explore different sounds.

• Statement 4: Practise of making sound is not seen in babies.

  This statement is incorrect. As mentioned in the analysis of Statement 3, babies actively practice making sounds through cooing, babbling, and other vocalizations. This practice is essential for developing the muscles and coordination needed for speech.

Based on the analysis, only the first statement accurately describes a key aspect of early language development.