Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a significant difficulty with learning, understanding and using spoken language. This can mean challenges with understanding and/or expressing language. DLD can also cause difficulties with written language.

DLD affects people around the world, no matter what language they speak. It impacts approximately 1 in 14 people, so in an average class of 30 pupils, at least 2 will be struggling to communicate.

Despite the number of people affected, awareness of DLD is relatively low. Common misconceptions are that DLD is a sign of a lack of intelligence, that it only affects children, it’s associated with other diagnoses such as autism, Down Syndrome or hearing loss.

What causes Developmental Language Disorder?

The exact cause is not yet known, but it is thought that parts of the brain involved in language and communication are wired a little differently in people with DLD. It is also known that genes play a part as DLD can run in families. 

However, as with other neurodevelopmental conditions, it is likely that there is a complex interaction of different factors at play. As many of these factors cannot be changed, parents should try not to feel guilty if their child receives this diagnosis.

How do I know if my child has DLD?

A child with DLD may present with the following:

• A delay in acquiring language and putting words together to form sentences.
• Difficulties following instructions and understanding questions.
• Limited use of longer more complex sentences.
• Difficulties thinking of the right words.
• Difficulties with reading and writing and organizing their thoughts into a narrative.
• Challenges in using their language skills to have conversations and make friends.

All of the above can cause frustration and low self esteem. However and importantly, children with DLD have many strengths that can be harnessed on their learning journey including practical skills and reading facial expressions and body language.

Areas of Speech & Language that may be affected

How can a Speech and Language Therapist help? 

Developmental Language Disorder is not something that someone can ‘grow out of’, and the difficulties may remain into adulthood. Early screening for language delays and swift referral to speech and language services can prevent more significant difficulties later in life.

A Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) can assess and diagnose Developmental Language Disorder. Assessment may involve a thorough case history, observations of your child at the clinic, home, or school (as appropriate), and the carrying out of informal and formal language assessments.

A clear diagnosis of DLD can be helpful in making sure a child gets the understanding and support they need.

Following assessment an SLT can:

• Devise and deliver therapy plans to help a child reach their communicative potential.
• Give advice and training to education staff involved with the child.
• Help to implement strategies in the classroom that will support the child with their learning and social development.
• Support parents with communication strategies to help their child.
• Provide support at any time in a person’s life when they may feel they need it, such as when changing school, leaving education or entering the workplace.

What support should you be looking for from your childs school?

• In schools, children with DLD should have an Individualised Education Plan (IEP). This will outline specific learning goals and the support they need to meet them. This might include speech therapy, language interventions, or classroom accommodations.
• Teachers can adapt the environment to support children with DLD, including:
  • Giving extra time to process information.
  • Simplifying instructions and repeating them.
  • Providing visual aids or written cues.
  • Using assistive technology for communication, like speech-to-text apps.

What can you do at home to support a child with DLD? 

• Parents and caregivers can support children by:
  • Creating language-rich environments (reading, talking, playing word games).
  • Encouraging conversation and giving the child time to respond.
  • Breaking down complex instructions into smaller steps.
  • Reinforcing what they learn in therapy or school through everyday activities.
•  ISLTS run training and support sessions for parents, carers, educational staff and other professionals on a range of topics. Please contact us to discuss our current parent enabling and training sessions.

How can I encourage my child to play and make friends? 

• Children with DLD may struggle with social communication, so structured playgroups or social skills groups can help them to practice interactions in a supportive setting.
• Making friends at school is important, but can be difficult in a pressured environment. Try to enable small scale playdates in natural, safe spaces for example at home or in the park.

Further Support & Reading:

• ISLTS – Speech & Language Services for Children.
• RADLD – Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder – this website provides information, webinars, support networks and strategies for managing DLD.
• NAPLIC – Professionals supporting Language & Communication Development.
• RCSLT – Advice on DLD diagnosis.