Which aspect of language development significantly predicts future reading comprehension in children?

Vocabulary knowledge significantly predicts future reading comprehension in children because it is foundational to understanding and interpreting written texts. When children have a robust vocabulary, they are better equipped to comprehend the meanings of the words they encounter in their reading. This understanding not only allows them to follow the narrative or main idea of a text but also helps them infer meaning, make connections, and engage critically with what they read.

As children grow, the breadth and depth of their vocabulary correlate with their ability to understand increasingly complex texts. Vocabulary development is often linked to other literacy skills, such as decoding and phonemic awareness, which also play crucial roles in the reading process. By nurturing vocabulary knowledge from a young age, educators can foster a stronger foundation for overall reading proficiency, enabling children to grasp content and develop critical thinking skills in response to reading material.