Writing in a conversational, playful voice Matthew Saxton offers a particularly engaging and accessible introduction to a wealth of knowledge about language. He models how language allows us both to share personal interests and enthusiasms and to build more public understanding by publishing and arguing about research findings.

Rod Parker-Rees, Associate Professor in Early Childhood Studies, Plymouth University

Engaging and well-organized, this textbook highlights nature-nurture debate, mismatches between comprehension and production, individual variation, and methodological issues. The second edition adds web-based support for teachers and students, including test questions and instructional slides. Updated references, some re-ordered material, and a new state-of-the-art ending further enhance this excellent textbook.

Professor Cecile McKee, Linguistics Department, University of Arizona

This book is an extremely clear and accessible introduction to a complex and fascinating subject, essential reading not only for its target audience of psychology students but also for Early Years teachers and students. Welcome touches of humor enliven balanced and detailed explanations of theory, debates, and research evidence.

Kate Allott, Senior Lecturer, School of Education, York St John University

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the subject of child language acquisition, and provides a balanced, unbiased discussion of the various issues and debates surrounding the topic. Saxton makes complex, and at times controversial, topics accessible and relevant, and the text will be invaluable for students of language, linguistics and psychology alike.

Dr Kate Scott, Senior Lecturer, Kingston University London

Mathew Saxton’s Child Language is an excellent book on a difficult to understand (and explain) field. The book covers the what we know about child language development in a readily accessible, readable and at times amusing format, which is perfect for UGs who have no previous knowledge in the field. This book is the best general book on child language development that I’ve seen and I welcome the updated second edition.

Dr. Michelle St Clair, Psychology Department, University of Bath

Simply and cogently written, this is a must-have handbook to any student, professional, or academic interested in child language, with very useful pedagogical features such as discussion boxes, case studies and exercises.

Dr. Jo Van Herwegen, Kingston University, London

Really great textbooks are few and far between – this is one. It is engaging, interesting, and balanced. I can recommend it highly.

Stephen Howe, Fukuoka University, Japan

Matthew Saxton provides a compelling account and comprehensive overview of child language acquisition and development . Engagingly written in a style that draws the reader in, the book covers all the bases and provides an excellent introduction to and overview of the area.

Dr Wendy Sims-Schouten, Reader in Childhood Studies, University of Portsmouth

Once again Matthew has managed to tackle one of life’s most complex and confusing aspects in an accessible and engaging way. His engaging style, clarity and humour enable him to demystify the most vexing of language development conundrums.

Dr Carla Solvason, Institute of Education, University or Worcester

What makes Child Language: acquisition and development such a useful book for A Level English Language teachers is its clear sense of overview, helpful explanations of research and theory and extensive supporting material. If you are looking for something that bridges the gap between A Level textbooks and more challenging academic texts, this is perfect.

Dan Clayton, English and Media Centre

Child Language provides a fascinating and accessible account of language acquisition, drawing on relevant theories and research. The book makes good use of exercises and discussion points to encourage the reader to critically engage, and is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the development of language.

Dr Ally Grandison, University of Surrey

Matthew’s writing is fascinating! It is a must book that every student should have in their library. I always find Matthew’s examples so fantastic helping us to understand difficult and complex processes in child language development.

Dr Georgia Niolaki, Coventry University

An invaluable resource for students and others interested in language development. The second edition comes with a companion website that offers additional online resources to link to teaching and/or studying.

Wolfgang Mann, MA, Ph.D., Reader in Special and Inclusive Education University of Roehampton, School of Education

This is an excellent book. It is built upon a solid review of current and past research, but brings fresh perspectives to our thinking about children's language development.

Dr David Waugh, School of Education, Durham University

This is a great introduction to the topic, well-written and easily accessible. Clearly laid out, with text boxes, quizzes and key terms explained.

Dr Karin White, Business and Humanities, Sligo Institute of Technology

Matthew Saxton's 'Child Language' is a fascinating book, giving insight into the ways in which children develop the ability to speak. Starting from pre-birth and tracing the many stages of development up to mature speaking ability, it is a thorough and engaging read. Written in an accessible and sometimes humorous style, difficult or unfamiliar concepts are dealt with in such a way that they can be easily understood.

Dr Louise Campbell, Moray House School of Education, Edinburgh University

This book is an exceptional guide for students delving into the fascinating field of child language acquisition. It expertly bridges the gap between understanding how children acquire their first language and engaging with advanced research and debates, particularly on the nature vs. nurture dichotomy. Written in accessible language, it introduces linguistic concepts without assuming prior knowledge, making it suitable for beginners. The inclusion of exercises, a glossary, and suggestions for further reading, such as TED Talks, enhances learning. Online resources like quizzes reinforce comprehension, ensuring mastery of key concepts. Engaging, balanced, and thorough, this book is a must-have resource for anyone exploring child language.

Miss Helen Young, Education, Leeds Beckett University