The Role of TV Programmes in Developing Children's Language Skills

Abstract

This study aims to examines the impact of television programs in developing children’s language skills, with a focus on the deficiencies in the language used in TV programming. To explore these issues, the authors conducted a comprehensive survey across all regions of Kazakhstan and analysed the findings. Based on respondents’ feedback, the study identified primary challenges and drew conclusions grounded in scholarly perspectives. The survey addressed several aspects, including the language of children's television programmes and its effect on linguistic development, children's fluency in Kazakh, the extent to which media language conforms to linguistic norms, common speech deficiencies among children, and the amount of time children spend watching television. The survey involved 407 participants. Lexical deviations in children's language were analysed using data from a social questionnaire completed by respondents. Conducted across diverse demographic and geographic regions, the survey results show the frequency and impact of various social factors contributing to lexical deviations, including children's exposure to television. The study also highlighted the role of parents in fostering native language development (Kazakh) and confirmed that the surrounding environment – especially television – affects children’s adherence to lexical norms. The questionnaire was administered in the state language, with respondents given the opportunity to provide additional comments. Based on the findings, the study assessed the impact of television on children's language development and proposed recommendations for linguistic, cultural, and social interventions.