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Language is a code we learn to use in order to
communicate ideas. Speech is the spoken form of language. Children learn
to talk by listening and practicing what they hear. Delayed language means
that words or sentences are not understood or used at the expected age.
Delayed speech means that some speech sounds are not made correctly at
the expected age. Children who have delayed speech or language follow
a typical pattern of development but at a slower rate.
Disordered language means that words or sentences are not understood or
used in a way that successfully communicates ideas. Children with disordered
language may have age level sentences and vocabulary but may be unable
to use their language to communicate effectively.
Delayed speech or language may be associated with
many health problems.
Some examples include:
- Hearing problems (including
frequent ear infections)
- Developmental delay
- Cerebral palsy
- Autism
- Prematurity
Children can also have other risks that can cause
or contribute to speech/language delays:
- Limited opportunity to hear
and practice talking
- Family history of speech/language
delays
Seek help when you become concerned. Early attention
to a language delay is important. A speech-language pathologist with experience
in child development can help children with delayed speech and language.
He/she will advise whether professional help is indicated. If so, individual
sessions are typically scheduled or a referral is made to an Early Childhood/Special
Education Program or preschool which offers speech/language services.
Services that are available at HCMC include:
- Assessment of children who
may have a speech/language delay/disorder
- Individual speech/language
treatment is provided for children who are not eligible for educationally
based services or in conjunction with school speech/language treatment
- Referral to other developmental
specialists as the need arises such as occupational therapy, physical
therapy, clinical psychology or other medical specialties
- Referral to appropriate ECSE
program for children who qualify for educationally based services from
birth to 5
- Close communication with referring
physician/nurse practitioner regarding progress made in therapy
- Suggestions for parents to
facilitate their child's speech/language development at home either
in conjunction with treatment prior to a reassessment of the child's
communication development
It is important to realize that you as a parent are
not to blame for your child's delay in understanding or talking. If your
child is receiving speech/language treatment, you and the clinician will
establish goals that can be worked on at home. Observing or participating
in sessions will help you learn how best to help your child. Sometimes direct
treatment services are not recommended but ideas are provided for families
to help their children at home with listening and talking. It is important
for families to keep follow-up appointments to ensure that your child's
speech/language continues to grow and develop.
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