First Language VS Second Language

Today I will try to compare the similarities and differences between learning your first language (as a child) and learning a second language, or 3rd, or 4th, or 5th etc (as an adult).

VS

Similarities

• learning new vocabulary
• learning new grammar rules
• feeling a sense of pride when learning new words (I don't know for sure that children feel this way, but I have definitely seen some proud facial expressions)
• finding new ways to communicate ideas
• continuously learning for the rest of life

Differences

First Language	Second Language
Learning how communication works	Already know how communication works
Babbling precedes words	I haven’t seen many adult language learners babbling… if you find one, let me know!
Gestures precede words	While we may use gestures a lot to get our message across, adults typically start with words
Has about one year of listening and watching before producing real words	Most people like to start speaking words on day 1, but there are a few who enjoy a learning method that involves a “silent period” or just listening before speaking
Learning through experience only until about 6 years in (start some direct instruction at school) **this is in exception of those late bloomers who come to us SLPs for language therapy!	Most adults will start trying to learn through direct instruction (book, app, podcast, etc) right away. It is really challenging to find an opportunity to learn through immersion only, and also takes a long time
Speaks single words for about 6 months before attempting word combinations, then combines 2-3 words for a few months before using complete sentences	Most adults like to start using complete sentences from the beginning
Don’t know how to read and write	Adults have an advantage to this one, especially if you are a visual learner (unless it is in a new script maybe)
Do not yet have a brain tailored to a specific language (until 6-12 months old)	May not be able to discriminate between related speech sounds in target language (for more info, see last post Baby? Can I teach him languages please?
Receptive language (understanding) is typically much higher/learned earlier than expressive language (producing)	Adults vary in their learning styles. Some may follow this pattern as well if they prefer listening over speaking (such as my introverted self)
Don’t know what grammar is, just learn from adults providing models and re-shaping incorrect production (e.g. “two cat”, “yes honey, two cats)	Already have a grammar system and know what grammar is. Adults just have to learn the new rules for the target language (which may be very similar to the first language or VERY different)
Usually very motivated to learn (to get wants and needs met)	Motivation varies, depending on need of target language and interest in learning it
Language use is the only way to get your wants, needs, and ideas communicated completely (includes sign language and all types of communication devices, excludes gestures)	If you can’t successfully use your target language, you can use a translator app, or revert to first language if the communication partner understands it too

*Keep in mind these typical development patterns for the first language are based on native English speakers and may vary across cultures and languages

I hope this was helpful and interesting for all of you. It was definitely interesting to write it all out and see the connections. Comment below if there are any I've missed!