A child's rate of language development is most likely influenced by which factor?

The rate of language development in a child is significantly influenced by exposure to language. When children are surrounded by rich and varied linguistic input, they are more likely to pick up vocabulary, learn sentence structure, and develop language skills more rapidly. This exposure includes the quantity and quality of interactions with adults and peers, the diversity of language experiences, and opportunities for meaningful communication.

Children who hear more speech, engage in conversations, and are read to regularly tend to have advanced language skills. Consistent exposure fosters familiarity with sounds, words, and grammatical patterns, which are crucial for language acquisition. Therefore, the amount and type of language a child is exposed to directly impacts their overall language development rate.