Language, shyness and social contexts: commentary

Language is a gift of special significance to our species. Whether the source of the generosity is nature or nurture, or some combination, is controversial, but few scientists or laypeople would dispute the evolutionary and practical value of our key mode of communication. From infancy, language is integral to just about everything we do, share, understand, perceive and achieve. Appropriately, childcare professionals and parents are disturbed by indications that a young person is not developing language skills at a typical pace.