Language Delays

Language delay refers to the inability to develop language in line with the norm for children of the same age.

In order to communicate, an individual first encodes his/her message into a set of words and sentence structures that convey a meaning. These processes are collectively referred to as “language”. “Language” is then expressed using motor commands which create the articulatory movements referred to as “speech”.

Language delays can be separated into two different categories:

• Receptive language refers to processing and understanding what is communicated.

• Expressive language refers to the use of speech, gestures, sign, print or pictures to communicate with others.

Children begin by learning language; they then use language to learn. A child with language delays is therefore more at risk for other types of developmental delays, such as cognitive, social and emotional difficulties. Children with language delays tend to encounter problems with reading and written language.

Early intervention may prevent the more serious consequences of future learning disabilities.