What is a language based learning disorder? It's exactly what the name says- a learning disorder caused by difficulties and deficits in language development. Language based learning disorders can impact a child's ability to process, express, read, write, and comprehend language in written and oral form.
Language based learning disorders include diagnoses such as Developmental Language Disorder, Dyslexia, and Dysgraphia.
Developmental Language Disorder is a difficulty in learning, understanding, and using language. Impacts expressive and receptive language skills. (typically the children we see)
Dyslexia is often linked with difficulties in phonological awareness. A child experiences difficulties in reading and decoding skills. Once evaluated and diagnosed in the school, children can qualify for services provided by a specialist. Parents/caregivers may also seek outside specialists for diagnosis and services.
Dysgraphia is when a child experiences difficulties with writing such as forming letters, spacing letters and words correctly, and fluency. Children can receive specialized services for intervention with dysgraphia. Occupational therapy can help!
With early intervention and speech therapy for toddlers, we don't focus on dysgraphia or dyslexia. (we're just excited when the toddler pays attention to the book or uses their pincher grasp appropriately, amiright?)
It's important to remember that what we are doing can have an impact on those future skills. For instance if a toddler that has difficulty with fine motor movement in their hands and fingers and these skills do not improve, there's a chance a child may experience some type of difficulty in the future.
In speech therapy for toddlers, it's so important that we are intentional with what we do. This is also another reason to get parents and caregivers on board with what we are doing.
We know about language delays and language disorders- but what about language differences?
A language difference is referring to the variations in languages that are influenced by an individual's culture, regional, social, or language background.
Language differences ARE NOT language disorders or language delays. When we meet a child with a language difference, those differences don't count against them.
It's important for us to be sensitive to language differences, talk with parents about their expectations for speech therapy, and plan strategies that will benefit the child moving forward without changing who they are.
You know, that last part should actually apply to everyone on your caseload.
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