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What is classed as a speech and language difficulty?
The following information is supplied by Afasic.
As many as 250,000 children under 5 -
and a similar number of school age - have a speech and language impairment. For
some, this is a delay - their language is developing, but more slowly than
usual. In some cases, this may be connected with 'glue ear' in early
childhood.
For others with a language disorder, the difficulty is more
complex. These children don't stammer or lisp. They are not autistic. There
general intelligence is often average or above. Their language impairment is
specific or primary - not the result of any other disability, It is sometimes
referred to as dysphasia.
Some of these children benefit from learning
a 'sign language', such as Paget Gorman, Makaton or British Sign
Language/Signed English.
Children with a speech and language
impairment have difficulties with talking (expressive language), understanding
(receptive language) or both.
Could this be your child?
Some children understand what is said to them, but can't use words to make
themselves understood. Some have dyspraxia - difficulty in making the movements
which produce speech.
Some children speak clearly in single words, but
have difficulties linking them together, often leaving words out
Some
children have difficulties with listening and attention skills which affect the
development of language.
Some children have problems with short-term
memory which prevent them using complex sentences. Some have sequencing
problems, and find it difficult to put words in the right order.
Some
children can speak clearly and at length, but often fail to get the point of
conversation, making inappropriate comments and replies.
Some children
have difficulties understanding abstract ideas like time, emotions or
make-believe. These children have trouble connecting ideas and using language
socially.
Some children have profound difficulties relating to the
outside world. Many of these will be described as having 'autistic tendencies'.
This may be the result of a speech and language impairment.
Not
understanding or being understood can be very frustrating and can lead to
tantrums and behaviour difficulties.
Many children with speech and
language impairments have difficulties with written language (dyslexia).
What help do these children need?
Children and
young people with speech and language impairments need
early recognition of
their difficulties
assessment by trained and experience professionals
specialist teaching, in schools or language units and later in colleges of
further education.
speech and language therapy
The families of these children also need support
to get the right help for their child
to come o terms with their child's
disability
to prepare for their child's future
to guide their child
into appropriate employment
For more information contact: Afasic . Web site: www.afasic.org.uk