, CHL2601 Assignment 3 2026
Due Date 5 June 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Explain the term “language delay” and explain its significance in Early Childhood
Care and Education (ECCE). (4 marks)
Language delay refers to a situation where a child does not develop speech, language, and
communication skills at the expected rate for their age. A child with a language delay may
have difficulty understanding what other people are saying, expressing their thoughts and
feelings, learning new words, or participating in conversations. The delay may affect
receptive language (understanding language), expressive language (using language), or
both. Although children develop at different rates, language delay becomes a concern when
a child consistently falls behind developmental milestones expected for their age group
(CHL2601 Study Guide, 2026).
Language development is extremely important in Early Childhood Care and Education
(ECCE) because it forms the foundation for learning, communication, social interaction, and
literacy. Children use language to express their needs, ask questions, solve problems, and
build relationships with others. When language delays are not identified and addressed
early, children may experience difficulties in classroom participation, social development,
and academic achievement. Early identification and intervention therefore play a critical role
in ensuring that children receive the support they need to develop effective communication
skills and reach their full potential (CHL2601 Study Guide, 2026).
1.2 Identify two signs of language delay in children during their early years and
critically explain them. (8 marks)
Limited vocabulary and difficulty expressing thoughts
One of the earliest signs of language delay is when a child uses significantly fewer words
than other children of the same age. The child may struggle to name objects, describe
Due Date 5 June 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Explain the term “language delay” and explain its significance in Early Childhood
Care and Education (ECCE). (4 marks)
Language delay refers to a situation where a child does not develop speech, language, and
communication skills at the expected rate for their age. A child with a language delay may
have difficulty understanding what other people are saying, expressing their thoughts and
feelings, learning new words, or participating in conversations. The delay may affect
receptive language (understanding language), expressive language (using language), or
both. Although children develop at different rates, language delay becomes a concern when
a child consistently falls behind developmental milestones expected for their age group
(CHL2601 Study Guide, 2026).
Language development is extremely important in Early Childhood Care and Education
(ECCE) because it forms the foundation for learning, communication, social interaction, and
literacy. Children use language to express their needs, ask questions, solve problems, and
build relationships with others. When language delays are not identified and addressed
early, children may experience difficulties in classroom participation, social development,
and academic achievement. Early identification and intervention therefore play a critical role
in ensuring that children receive the support they need to develop effective communication
skills and reach their full potential (CHL2601 Study Guide, 2026).
1.2 Identify two signs of language delay in children during their early years and
critically explain them. (8 marks)
Limited vocabulary and difficulty expressing thoughts
One of the earliest signs of language delay is when a child uses significantly fewer words
than other children of the same age. The child may struggle to name objects, describe
