Language Skills: Signs of Delays & Tips for Practice

πŸ“šπŸ—£οΈ Language is key to communication and connection! It allows us to understand the meaning of language concepts and express our thoughts and share information with others. We naturally develop language skills through exposure as we grow up. But did you know that some children may struggle with language development and need more support to develop these skills?

Here are some signs that children may demonstrate if they're struggling to develop language skills:

πŸ” Receptive Language Difficulties:

  • Doesn't look for objects or people when named

  • Difficulty following directions

  • Struggles with understanding and answering questions

  • Challenges identifying objects and actions

  • Difficulty understanding language concepts (e.g., size, shape, time)

πŸ’¬ Expressive Language Challenges:

  • Slow to develop vocabulary

  • Doesn't use gestures to show/request

  • Slow to say first words ("later talker")

  • Difficulty naming objects and people

  • Challenges forming sentences

  • Trouble asking questions

  • Difficulty using correct grammar

πŸ“– Reading and Writing Challenges:

  • Holding a book right side up

  • Challenges learning rhymes

  • Trouble learning sight words

  • Difficulty with story sequencing

  • Challenges naming letters and numbers

  • Difficulty learning the alphabet

πŸ” Possible causes of language disorders can include:

  • autism

  • premature birth

  • brain injury

  • cerebral palsy

  • Down syndrome or Fragile X syndrome

  • family history of language problems

  • fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

  • hearing loss

  • developmental learning disabilities

  • low birth weight

  • stroke

If you notice any delays or difficulties in your child's language development, here’s what you can do…

🌟 Supporting Language Development Tips:

  • Create Language-Rich Environments: Read books, label objects and actions, and play together.

  • Read Books Together: Books promote vocabulary, comprehension, and a love for reading.

  • Model Language: Talk about your actions, thoughts, and feelings using specific words.

  • Seek Professional Help If Needed: If you notice any difficulties in your child's language development, consult a speech-language pathologist for guidance and support.

Check out these Communication Milestones charts to better understand which language skills to look for at your child's age and if your child could benefit from speech and language therapy.

Remember, every child is unique and early intervention can make a world of difference. Let's support our little ones in their language journey! πŸŒˆπŸ’¬β€οΈ

In Bend, OR and have questions?

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