A built-in timetable refers to a theory that suggests children learn language primarily through a predetermined schedule of development, which is biologically programmed.
Related terms
Critical Period: The critical period is the specific time during childhood when language acquisition is believed to be most optimal.
Universal Grammar: Universal grammar refers to the innate linguistic knowledge or rules that all humans possess, which helps facilitate language learning.
Language Acquisition Device (LAD): The language acquisition device is an innate mental capacity proposed by Chomsky that enables children to acquire grammar and language rules effortlessly.