As a parent or carer, you want the best for your child; communication is a big part of that. Language and speech disorders are common in children and can affect their ability to express themselves and understand others.
This guide will help you understand the different types of disorders, how to spot them and when to get professional help for your child’s speech and language.
Types of Speech and Language Disorders
There are several types of speech and language disorders that can affect children:
Speech Sound Disorders: Children with speech sound disorders may struggle with specific sounds or articulating words. This can be a lisp, stuttering or other articulation issues that make it hard for others to understand them.
Language Disorders: Language disorders can be receptive (difficulty understanding language) or expressive (difficulty using language to communicate). Children with language disorders may have a limited vocabulary and struggle to form sentences or follow instructions.
Social Communication Disorders: Some children may have difficulty using language in social situations, understanding social cues, or engaging in conversations. Because of their communication difficulties, they may struggle to make friends or participate in group activities.
Apraxia of Speech (AOS): Apraxia of speech is a brain-based disorder that affects a child’s ability to coordinate the muscle movements for speech. Children with AOS may have trouble producing sounds, syllables or words consistently.
Dysarthria: Dysarthria is a speech disorder caused by damage to the nervous system. It makes it difficult for a child to control the muscles for speech, resulting in slurred, quiet, or slow speech.
How to Identify Speech and Language Disorders in Children
Like anything, early intervention is key when it comes to diagnosing this disorder. We recommend looking out for:
- Delayed language development or speech compared to their peers
- Limited vocabulary or can’t learn new words
- Struggling to form sentences
- Difficulty understanding and following instructions
- Social communication and interaction difficulties
If you see any of these signs, get your child’s doctor to help you kickstart the assessment process with a speech pathologist. During these sessions, we will assess your child’s communication skills and give a diagnosis.
DLD vs ASD
It’s also common for Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to both affect communication, but there are key differences.
Here is an easy breakdown of how to tell the difference:
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
Primarily affects language skills
May have average or above-average intelligence
Does not typically involve repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Affects social communication, behaviour, and interests
Can occur with any level of intelligence
Often involves repetitive behaviours and restricted interests
In some cases, the two may be confused, making it extra important that you seek professional guidance on getting the correct diagnosis from the beginning.
What Can a Speech Pathologist Diagnose?
A speech pathologist is a trained professional who can assess and diagnose:
- Speech sound disorders
- Expressive and receptive language disorders
- Social communication disorders
- Stuttering
- Apraxia of speech
- Dysarthria
Working with a speech pathologist can help you better understand your child’s specific difficulties and develop a plan to support their communication.
Why Do Some Kids Need Speech Language Therapy?
Speech language therapy is an important intervention for children with communication disorders. It can help them to improve their skills and overcome difficulties in:
- Delayed speech or language development
- Can’t produce specific sounds or articulate words
- Struggling to understand or express language
- Social communication
- Feeding and swallowing difficulties
A qualified speech pathologist will work with your child to develop targeted strategies and exercises to address their specific needs during speech-language therapy. This may involve practising sounds, building vocabulary, sentence structure or social communication skills.
As we’ve said earlier, early intervention is key, so parents and caregivers need to trust their instincts regarding their child’s communication. If you have any doubts or concerns, discuss them with your child’s doctor or get a referral to a speech-language pathologist.
An Important Note on Making Progress
Remember, every child develops at their own pace, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to speech and language development. But by being informed, vigilant and proactive, you can ensure your child gets the support they need to develop strong communication skills and excel in their personal and academic life.
Remember to celebrate your child’s progress and achievements as you go on this journey with them. Every small step forward is a testament to their strength and your consistency. With the right tools, guidance, and support, your child can overcome speech and language disorders and become a better communicator.
Key Points
- Speech and language disorders can affect a child’s ability to communicate effectively.
- Speech sound disorders
- Language disorders
- Social communication disorders
- Apraxia of speech
- Dysarthria
- Early intervention is vital. Look for signs of delayed speech or language development, limited vocabulary and difficulty following instructions.
- Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) affects language skills only, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects social communication, behaviour and interests.
- Speech pathologists are trained professionals who diagnose speech and language disorders and develop individualised treatment plans.
- Speech-language therapy can help children with communication disorders improve their skills and overcome difficulties to succeed personally and academically.
Enquire now to book a consultation with our friendly speech therapist team.
