The Role of Gesture in Language Acquisition: A Cross-Cultural Study

Abstract

This article investigates the role of gestures in the language acquisition process across different cultures. Focusing on early childhood development, the research analyzes how gestures facilitate communication before verbal skills fully develop. By conducting cross-cultural comparisons in diverse linguistic environments, the study identifies universal patterns and distinct cultural differences in gesture usage. This work contributes to the understanding of non-verbal communication as a pivotal aspect of language learning, providing insights for educators and language therapists. The findings suggest implications for developing more effective language acquisition tools and teaching methodologies.