All children begin language learning from birth. For those with normal hearing, they are saturated with auditory language through conversations with and between parents and others, radio and TV, and all sorts of auditory language information. However, if they are exposed to a real visual language, they can develop language at the same rate as children with normal hearing. Learning must be as natural and as much fun as possible. Making a young child sit and pay attention will not encourage language development.
Language learning through play is usually the best way.
Play is social and fun. It encourages taking turns - an essential element of conversation. It is easy to respond to, even without words. Play helps children connect physical actions with the words that describe those actions - the best way to reinforce understanding and learning. Play invovles repetition.