Developmental Language Disorder

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition where children have long-term challenges talking and/or understanding words.

What is DLD?

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition where children have long-term challenges talking and/or understanding words. Children with DLD may have lots of ideas but find it hard to put their ideas into words and understand what other people say to them. Their difficulties can be hard to spot and may be ‘hidden’ for a long time. (Speech and Language UK)

It affects approximately 2 children in a class of 30
DLD can sometimes be subtle or hidden and may be mistaken for other things, e.g. behaviour difficulties, laziness, general learning difficulties
DLD is not caused by parents, emotional difficulties or other medical genetic conditions associated with language difficulties, such as ASD or Down Syndrome
Children with DLD may have other difficulties, such as Dyslexia or ADHD
Remember that DLD may not be obvious. Where children are presenting with social, emotional and mental health needs, literacy difficulties, or other learning difficulties, consider language

Children with DLD can have difficulties with:

Understanding instructions and questions
Learning and retaining vocabulary and concepts
Constructing spoken sentences
Sequencing and telling stories/ retelling events
Finding the right words to say at the right times
Understanding non-literal language, idioms, words with multiple meanings
Using newly taught vocabulary
Organisation skills and retention of information
Working memory
Explaining incidents in a clear and structured way
Joining in game that have rules (because these are explained using language)
Making friends and interacting with other children
The increased academic and language demands of secondary school, alongside social pressures, make the secondary years particularly difficult for students with DLD
Children with DLD may have strengths in other areas, such as art, P.E. or music, which rely less on language

How can you help?

Say your child’s name before asking questions or giving instructions, so that they know when to listen
Use simple language and repeat new words many times, to help your child to learn and remember them
Talk slowly and pause frequently, to allow time for your child to process what you are saying
Use photos and gestures to support your child’s understanding and talking
Try to talk about the ‘here and now’, rather than things the child is not currently doing
Help your child to learn skills to join in with other children, e.g. playing turn taking games that encourage listening and talking
Use visuals (e.g. calendars, objects, maps, checklists) as you talk, to help them understand
Help them to manage their emotions at home, e.g. have a place to calm down and, during calm times, talk about the emotions they are feeling

What is DLD?

Children with DLD can have difficulties with:

How can you help?

More information and useful links