Speech/Language Communication disabilities are some of the most common disabilities we find in the school setting.

A Speech disorder affects how a student articulates or pronounces words.   Often students with communication disorders have had a lot of ear infections as a youngster and may have missed out on some important early speech development. Other students just developed incorrect or dysfunctional speech patterns.   Students with articulation difficulties may have a very hard time learning phonics for reading.  They may have a hard time being understood by their teacher and peers. 

We think of Speech disorders as affecting the "mouth."

A Language disorder affects how a student processes language.  Students with language disorders may not say words in a sentence in the correct order or they may still be using "baby talk" even though they are in kindergarten or later.  Although some parents think this is cute (and it is), without correction this can become a very serious problem.  Students with language disorders have difficulty understanding what is said to them and responding in a complete sentence.  They may have a very difficult time learning to write. 

We think of Language disorders as affecting the "brain."

Whether the disability lies with the brain or with the mouth, the goal is to retrain the student to using appropriate techniques.  Most Communication Disordered students, if caught early enough, will make gains and exit special education services before secondary school.   

If you have a child with a Communication Disorder, there are things you can do to help.  Be sure and ask the Speech/Language Pathologist that works with your student at the next IEP meeting.  They are happy to provide you with materials and ideas to work on at home.  Your assistance is likely to decrease the time your child will need special education services.