This article supports the claim that there are strong interactive links between children's language development, cognitive reasoning and their success in school achievement. These links are best facilitated within a social learning framework where children's language and talk is encouraged, accepted and respected. This talk is the most authentic place to begin the adult dialogue with children that is purposeful and designed to build the vocabulary, concepts and understandings of the topic being taught. Marion Blank's level of language analysis is explored along with suggestions to enhance children's level of expressive and receptive language. Blank's strategies have been shown to enhance children's literacy achievement as well as their ability to settle into a positive learning environment. (Contains 2 tables.)