In this cutting edge new textbook Shelia Kennison provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of language development. Taking a broad perspective that covers the period before birth through old age, Kennison covers all of the many facets of this exciting field. Throughout the text there is a strong integration of world languages and bilingualism; the biological basis of language (including cognitive neuroscience and the socio-cultural influences on language); language development across cultures; grammatical development; and language-related delays and disorders.

Each chapter includes multiple pedagogical features such as key terms, review questions, suggested projects, recommended readings and videos. In addition, there are special features highlighting examples that illustrate the diversity of human languages, noteworthy research discoveries, and case histories of extraordinary individuals.