Hi, my son has language delays but he apparently also has trouble with understanding spoken language after being assessed. His expressive language (use of speech) and receptive language (understanding of spoken language) are both at a younger age. He's 5 in a few months and his understanding and speech has been assessed as equivalent to a 3 year old. What does that actually mean though? He seems far more advanced then that to me. He always understands everything but apparently not. Could it be just expectations have risen over the years? How can I help him? They gave me a few activities to do with him but they don't seem enough to actually teach him the language he's missing
5 Replies
Some kids, like mine, are really good at guessing what you are saying.
For example if I say something my son is looking for clues. One look in a certain direction and he'll guess I'm talking about the object I'm looking at.
Also some kids will understand parts of a sentence but not specific words in a sentence. For example my son doesn't understand 'future words' like tomorrow or Tuesday and he doesn't understand tense. So what DID I do versus what am I doing.
One thing I noticed is I modified my language and behaviour to his level without even realising it. So yeah he could understand most things I har unintentionally modified my language.
Receptive and expressive language 'norms' haven't changed over time. Speech/language assessments are based on society norms.
I'd be expecting on going speech therapy. If that hasn't been offered then I'd be asking for it, or finding a speech therapist who can offer it. My son would see a therapist once a week, each session I was given homework to do, and when we saw the therapist next then new homework would be set.
I get the whole lowering language to suit the child that's probably what I've been doing :/ thanks :)
I agree some kids really dont understand but in a classroom you wouldnt know it, they blend and follow and mimic and pick up clues, but ask them individually and then you realise. The other thing is mums usually do have a language they undersntad each other, maybe try getting him talking to strangers? Talk to the checkout worker, then on the way home ask questions to see what he can repeat?
Personally i would work on vocabulary. Use as many different alternative words for things as you can. Describe things, not the blue hat, but the navy blue baseball cap with the peak. Repeat your self and rephrase to use different words, experience and just talk about everything to build vocabulary.
My DD who is 5 has speech delay.
She is getting an IQ test in a couple weeks to help with preparing for school and we will find out then where her language is at.
I personally think she understands ALOT of what is being said and asked, but then again, what is the normal?
I have no advise to give you yet, but I just wanted to let you know you are not alone!
I'll update you in a months time once the assessment has been made and let you know where my DD is at ?
If there is a uni in your area that has a speech pathology clinic you can look at seeing them as well, students have to give detailed reports and information. The one in our area is $15 a session. One on one talking helps ?