Sometimes, a child may live with a mix of expressive and receptive language disorders. A lack of understanding or poor expression of language does not always indicate a language disorder, however. This could simply be the result of a speech delay. Read on to learn about the types, characteristics, causes, and trusted treatment methods to manage language disorders in children.
Types of Language Disorders in Children
With language, there are specific achievements expected when children mark a certain age. At 15 months, it is likely that a child can recognize between five to ten people when they are named by parents or caregivers. At 18 months, it is expected that a child can respond to simple directives like ‘let’s go outside’ without challenges. This is an already receptive child.
Receptive Language Disorder
When a child struggles to understand the messages communicated to, or around them, this can be explained as a receptive disorder. Children with receptive challenges will usually display these difficulties before the age of four. In such cases, the child struggles to understand the spoken conversations or instructions directed around them. Likewise, written words may be difficult to process. Simple gestures to come, go, or sit still may also prove challenging to comprehend.
Expressive Language Disorders
Expressive language disorders occur when a child is unable to use language to communicate their thoughts or feelings. Children with expressive disorders will find it difficult to name objects, tell stories, or make gestures to communicate a point. This disorder can cause challenges with asking or answering questions, and may lead to improper grammar usage when communicating.
Symptoms of Language Disorders
Language disorders are a common observation in children. Up to 1 out of 20 children exhibit at least one symptom of a language disorder as they grow. The symptoms of receptive disorders include:
Difficulty understanding words that are spokenChallenges with following spoken directionsExperiencing strain with organizing thoughts
Expressive language disorders are identified through the following traits in children:
Struggling to piece words into a sentenceAdopting simple and short words when speaking Arranging spoken words in a skewed mannerDifficulty finding correct words when speakingResorting to placeholders like ‘er’ when speakingSkipping over important words when communicatingUsing tenses improperly Repeating phrases or questions when answering
Causes of Language Disorders
With a language disorder, the child does not develop the normal skills necessary for speech and language. The factors responsible for language disorders are unknown, this explains why they are often termed developmental disorders.
Disabilities or Brain Injury
Despite the uncertainty around the causes of these disorders, certain factors have strong links to these conditions. In particular, other developmental disorders like autism and hearing loss commonly co-occur with language disorders. Likewise, a child with learning disabilities may also live with language disorders. Aphasia is another condition linked with language disorders. This condition develops from damage to the portion of the brain responsible for language. Aphasia may be caused by a stroke, blows to the head, and brain infections. The injury may increase the chances of developing a language disorder.
Diagnosis of Language Disorders
To determine if a child has a language disorder, the first step is to receive an expert’s assessment of their condition. A speech-language pathologist or a neuropsychologist may administer standardized tests. These are to review the child’s levels of language reception and expression.
Treatment of Language Disorders
Language disorders can have far-reaching effects on the life of a child. These disorders can lead to poor social interactions, or a dependence on others as an adult. Challenges with reception and expression can also lead to reading challenges, or problems with learning. For expert guidance, a speech-language pathologist can work with children and their guardians to improve communication and expression. Because language disorders can be emotionally taxing, parents and children with these disorders can try therapy. This will help in navigating the emotional and behavioral issues caused by language impairments.
