This bibliography contains references to materials relating to language learning and development in the young child, specifically, speaking and understanding language. Receptive, communicative and expressive language as well as particular facets of language imitation and production are topics included. Reference materials are listed in four major sections. Section I provides a foundation of readings in language development, learning, and competencies. Included are the works of major theorists on how syntactic and semantic competencies are acquired and the developmental achievements which index and illuminate this acquisition. Section II provides resources and ideas for oral language curricula for infants, preschoolers, and young school-age children. Such references should be particularly useful for those who are responsible for promoting language-enriching experiences for young children either individually or in groups. Section III contains references to resources concerning the social interaction patterns, particularly the language milieu of the family in which the child is reared. Research reports are included which correlate language development with specific kinds of family experiences and parental language inputs. Section IV is devoted to measures of early language functioning. (Author/CS)