Language
Language is a structured, organised system which allows people to communicate with each other.
Language delay, difficulty or disorder?
Langauge includes the passing of meaningful information from one person from another. People may experience challenges with their receptive and or expressive language. Receptive language is understanding a message and being able to interpret it correctly. Expressive language refers to being able to formulate messages in a clear and consise manner.
Children develop their first words around 12 months of age and will begin using 4-5 word sentences by 4 years of age with the use of mostly appropriate grammar.
A language delay occurs when language is acquired in the typical sequence but behind their peers of the same age. A language delay that does not go away may be due to a developmental language disorder.
People with langauge difficulties may experience:
- Challenges understanding or using words, sentences, conversation
- No or limited spoken words
- Inability to follow instructions
- Word finding difficulties
- Trouble putting sentences together
- Difficulty understanding longer sentences
- Challenges understanding or telling stories
How to get help
If you think your child is having trouble with language, it’s best to talk to a professional about your concerns. You could speak with your child’s GP or paediatrician, their teacher or early childhood eduator or you could make an appointment with a speech pathologist.
A speech pathologist will listen to your concerns and complete an assessment on your child to determine their strengths and identify possible areas for development.
Depending upon the results of the assessment the speech pathologist may offer the below support:
- Provide individual therapy or group therapy to support development of language and communication skills
- Suggest compensatory strategies
- Provide strategies to communication partners/caregivers to help
- Recommend Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- With consent, collaborate with teachers/educators to build their understanding of your child’s communication and offer strategies to support in the classroom.
Other related services
