The adults role in regards to language is special. We cannot just present and leave the child alone to explore, as we do with other exercises. The exploration is language deals with communication not manipulation of materials. We must in a sense become the instrument for communication and provide the child with opportunities for self-expression. The mandated three year age span creates a beneficial social climate.
Little children talk a lot.
The little ones, who are still very much in need of our help to express themselves. The four year olds, who use a lot of language to organize their activities for themselves or in groups. And the five year olds who are more s ophisticated and use language to share ideas, facts and opinions with others. Writing and reading is also alive in this environment and a fascinating event even for the youngest child. The language in this environment also exposes the child to help asked for and help offered, to encouragement and caring by adults and the children.