What is the difference between language delay and language disorder

Language disorders are heterogeneous, and the nature and severity of disorders can vary considerably. In contrast to a delay or a disorder is a language difference.

Vinson defines a communication difference as when communication behaviors meet the norms of the primary speech community but do not meet the norms of Standard English.

This difference can exist whether the person in question is a child from a different country or simply a different neighborhood in the same city. She goes on to note that, regardless of the degree of variation, all dialects are considered to be linguistically valid and legitimate.

So, what are some options for addressing language delays and disorders? Intervention for a language delay may take on several forms:. The overall goal of intervention is to stimulate language development and teach skills to enhance communication and access academic content.

The developmental appropriateness and potential effectiveness on communication and academic and social success should be considered when developing treatment goals. Whether you suspect a language delay or language disorder, it is critical to seek the expertise of a speech-language pathologist to ensure proper observation and intervention as needed.

Early intervention services for children are available through local school systems or health departments nationwide via the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. For more information about speech-language pathology services, visit www. You are commenting using your Twitter account. You are commenting using your Facebook account. Notify me of new comments via email. Notify me of new posts via email. Special Education Guide Language Delay versus Language Disorder Michigan State Speech and Language Delay and Disorder Now consider these scenarios: A parent schedules a speech evaluation at your clinic because she is concerned that her two-year-old child has a vocabulary of about five words.

When she takes her child to the park or on a play date, she sees that other two-year-old children are using many words, and are even combining these words into phrases. Her child can label her favorite toy, her favorite food, and can even call to the family pet. This often results in the child crying and throwing toys.

A seven-year-old child is scheduled for a speech evaluation. After interviewing the parent and administering a standardized language test, you realize this child has a hard time following directions and using correct grammar in his sentences. His vocabulary skills are below average, compared to same-age peers, as is his understanding of basic concepts e.

After speaking with his parents, you notice that they share a similar pattern to their grammar and production of speech sounds. Also, simply spending time singing, chatting and encouraging imitation sounds and gestures is a great place to start, even with infants. The benefits of reading to and with your child are endless. They can learn new words, new concepts, the structure of storytelling, imaginative ideas, and more.

Choose age-appropriate books like soft cover books with textures and large pictures for young children. These pictures will encourage the child to look on while you read, and even encourages them to interact with the book i. As they grow, you can introduce nursery rhymes or other books that have rhythmic appeal. Predictable books are also a good choice as they encourage your child to anticipate what might happen, and they even may start to memorise their favourites.

But in those boring moments, your child can learn so much. For example, you could name all the foods you put into the trolley at the supermarket and encourage your child to join in with the ones they know. You could also talk about the steps you take when you are making a meal or tidying the house. Our friendly team of experienced speech pathologists are here to guide you through your concern and help you take the best next step.

Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. No Comments. Should I Be Worried? Is My Toddler a Late-Talker? What is Speech and Language Delay? Understanding Speech and Language Milestones The following basic milestones can help you determine if there is cause for concern, or if your child is developing at an appropriate rate according to The Hanen Centre.

While milestones can help guide your decisions in relation to external support, it is important to consider other factors that could prevent your child from developing appropriate speech and language skills, including: quiet as an infant; little babbling a history of ear infections limited number of consonant sounds eg. Know that it is ok to not always have the answers and seek the assistance you need via the following steps: Talk to a speech pathologist about your concerns, and assess firstly if you need to embark on a speech pathology journey , and if so, what that might look like for your child.

Even if you think your child is hearing just fine, it is important to make sure they are hearing sounds at a variety of volumes and pitches.