The critical age hypothesis suggests that there is a "window of opportunity" for learning a first language. This means that there is an optimal period for acquiring language skills.
The correct option is:
2) between birth and middle childhood.
During this period, children are more adept at picking up languages naturally and with greater ease compared to later stages in life. Their brains are highly adaptable and receptive to language input, making it the prime time for language acquisition.
It's important to note that while language learning can occur at any age, the critical age hypothesis emphasizes the advantage of starting the learning process early, ideally before the onset of middle childhood, to fully harness this natural ability.
By being exposed to languages during this critical period, children can develop strong linguistic skills that form a solid foundation for further language learning throughout their lives.
