What is DLD and Why Does it Matter?
Developmental Language Disorder is a learning deficit that impacts one’s ability to use and understand language. This can result in challenges with communication, academics, and social interactions.
DLD affects approximately 1 in every 14 kindergarten-aged children. In the average classroom, there are likely to be one or two children with DLD. Yet, despite its prevalence, DLD can often go undiagnosed since it can be difficult to identify.
Imagine a classroom full of kids learning together. The teacher has just finished instruction and is now walking around the room assisting the students as they are working. Children are in their seats completing their work and squirming in their chairs. Now imagine a child who misinterpreted the multi-step directions given by the teacher at the end of the lesson. The student didn’t understand the language that the educator used and now they don’t know what to do. Perhaps they are trying to interact with the teacher or their peers to gain understanding but are having difficulty communicating their needs or asking questions. This student could be exhibiting signs of a Developmental Language Disorder (DLD).
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Younger children with DLD may exhibit:
- Difficulty constructing longer and more complex sentences
- Trouble learning and retaining new vocabulary
- Problems engaging in conversation
- Difficulty following oral directions
- Frequent grammatical errors when speaking
Older children or adults with DLD might exhibit:
- Limited used of complex sentences
- Trouble finding the “right” words
- Difficultly understanding implied meanings, sarcasm, idioms and other forms of figurative language
- Confusing or disorganized storytelling and writing
- Frequent grammatical and/or spelling errors
Download our Collaborating with Children with Developmental Language Disorder
Early identification and diagnosis of Developmental Language Disorders can significantly affect a child's potential since so much of their learning relies on interacting with language. Early intervention can help children with DLD to catch up with their peers. With early intervention, children with DLD have a better chance to develop robust language skills and become confident, capable, and proficient learners.
It is important to note that a doctor, teacher, or parent should refer a child suspected of having DLD to a speech-language pathologist (SLP). Speech-language pathologists are professionals specifically trained to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals who experience problems developing speech or language.
Speech and language therapy focuses on enhancing a child's understanding and use of language, along with developing communication strategies. SLPs can also work with an educator to provide accommodations or modifications for a student in the classroom. For example, the teacher might break down instruction into smaller steps, and present information at a slower rate to give the student more time to process verbal instruction. There are many appropriate accommodations that can be made based on a student’s specific needs.
LanguageScreen by Ox Ed & Assessment offers a quick, tablet-based assessment, designed for children ages 3.5 to 11, adapted to each child's age. It flags language difficulties and provides valuable insights which assists educators in identifying and addressing language related learning difficulties early, ensuring students receive the support, referrals, and interventions that they need.
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Families, speech- language pathologists, and educators play an important role in reinforcing language skills through daily activities and structured support at home and school. With the right interventions in place, many children with DLD make significant progress and continue to improve their language skills throughout their lives.
