Final answer:
The 'Magic 7' refers to a sequence of language development: crying, cooing, babbling, one-word phrases, and finally two-word phrases. This pattern demonstrates the progression from simple vocal reflexes to the formation of basic linguistic structures in infants and toddlers, showing the link between language and cognitive development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The “Magic 7” stages of language development in children refer to a sequential progression of vocalization that begins at birth and continues through the toddler years. These stages typically include: crying, cooing, babbling, one-word phrases, and two-word phrases. The correct order of these stages is option b: crying, cooing, babbling, one-word phrases, two-word phrases.
Initially, infants communicate by crying, signaling needs to their caregivers. Shortly after birth, they start to display cooing, which is a one-syllable combination of a consonant and a vowel sound that reflects the native language of their caregivers. As they grow, infants enter the babbling stage, repeating syllables like “ma-ma” or “da-da”, and by around 12 months, they typically say their first meaningful word. By approximately 18 months, they begin to create two-word phrases to communicate more complex ideas.
These early language skills are intertwined with a child's cognitive and social development. Gesture usage is a predictor of subsequent language development as gesturing often precedes vocal language skills. Children's language acquisition is an essential part of their overall early development, setting the stage for more complex interactions and learning.