The Role of Parental Scaffolding in the Language Acquisition of Children with Developmental Delays: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study investigates the role of parental scaffolding in supporting language acquisition among children with developmental delays. Qualitative methods were employed to capture in-depth perspectives from 25 caregivers of children aged 3 to 6 years with developmental delays. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather data on parental scaffolding practices. Data analysis followed a thematic approach, where transcripts were coded and themes related to responsive interactions, language modeling, and support strategies were identified. The findings underscored the significant impact of parental scaffolding on language acquisition. Responsive interactions, including prompting and encouragement, emerged as crucial in stimulating communication and fostering confidence in children. Caregivers’ effective modeling of language, through descriptive speech and vocabulary expansion, was associated with enhanced linguistic competence. Moreover, structured support strategies such as visual aids and routine establishment facilitated comprehension and communication clarity, mitigating challenges associated with developmental delays. In conclusion, parental scaffolding plays a pivotal role in enhancing language development in children with developmental delays. By adapting support strategies to meet the child’s needs and abilities, caregivers can effectively promote language skills crucial for cognitive, social, and academic growth. These findings underscore the importance of integrating evidence-based scaffolding practices into therapeutic and educational interventions to optimize language outcomes for this vulnerable population.