This book addresses child's language learning in a manner designed to be understandable to the nonspecialist. The major areas covered are: (1) learning one's first language; (2) the role of adults in the child's language learning; (3) discovering the structure of language: phonology; (4) discovering the structure of language: syntax; (5) learning the meaning of words; (6) learning the social uses of language; (7) language as the key to learning; (8) attitudes toward language; (9) learning a second language; (10) observing children's language; and (11) encouraging language development. The appendices offer information on testing linguistic proficiency and suggestions for further reading. In addition, a chart displaying manner and place of articulation of English consonants and vowels is presented. A glossary of terms mentioned in and related to the content of the book is also included. (JK)