Language disorders, language delay, specific language impairment (SLI), expressive language delay, receptive language delay....all these terms are considered a spoken language disorder.
Children who have spoken language disorders can look different from each other.
A spoken language disorder is a language disorder defined by difficulty learning and using language due to deficits in receptive and expressive language skills in the area(s) of:
It is important to note that the characteristics or symptoms of a language disorder may persist through development and change over time.
A child who has a language disorder may also have:
If a child has a language disorder and no other disorder, his/her language disorder is considered a specific language impairment (SLI).
We all want to know what is the CAUSE of a language disorder. Well, that can be hard to pinpoint at times. Some common causes are:
The factors listed above are just risk factors. In plain English, this means just because children may have one or more risk factors, it does not mean they will develop a language disorder.
The opposite is also true. A child does not have to have a risk factor to have a disorder.
* This is why therapy and supports are so important!
If you suspect that your child has a language disorder, please schedule an appointment with us or find a speech pathologist in your area.
Your child will need an evaluation. Click here to learn what a language disorder evaluation entails.
In the meantime, below are signs of a POSSIBLE language disorder. I outlined a few key things to look for.
Phonology
Morphology and Syntax
Semantics (Vocabulary/Word Meaning)
Pragmatics
* Although these areas are listed separately, it is important to note that language skills are not discrete.
This is complex and lengthy so I made a whole page dedicated to it. Check out our language disorders therapy page NOW!
There are many easy ways to support language learning at home.
Bridget is an ASHA certified, practicing speech-language pathologist. She is passionate about providing parents with information on child speech and language development as well as provide functional, easy activities to do at home! Parents have the power to make a real difference. Follow Bridget at Facebook and Pinterest for more fun!