Functions of Children's Language

instrumental function

language used to satisfy needs or obtain something

purpose:

• ‘I want’

examples:

• ‘juice’

• ‘I want teddy’

regulatory function

language used to control or direct the behaviour of others

purpose:

• ‘Do as I tell you’

examples:

• ‘stop’

• ‘come here’

• ‘give me that’

interactional function

language used to establish, develop and maintain social relationships

purpose:

• ‘Me and you’

examples:

• ‘hello’

• ‘play with me’

personal function

language used to express feelings, opinions, preferences and identity

purpose:

• ‘Here’s how I feel’

examples:

• ‘I like it’

• ‘I’m sad’

representational function

language used to convey information, describe or explain

purpose:

• ‘I’ve got something to tell you’

examples:

• ‘Daddy’s at work’

• ‘The dog’s sleeping’

heuristic function

language used to explore, learn about and understand the world

purpose:

• ‘Tell me why’

examples:

• ‘What’s that?’

• ‘Why?’

• ‘How does it work?’

imaginative function

language used for pretend play, storytelling and creating imaginary situations

purpose:

• ‘Let’s pretend’

examples:

• ‘I’m a superhero’

• ‘The teddy is flying’