Successful Strategy For Central Florida Children With Development Language Delay 

Consistency and routine makes it easier for preschool children to learn, especially those with developmental language delays (DLD). A simple strategy can help the learning process was published in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) in hopes of helping parents and caregivers create opportunities for success. Easing the frustration many children with DLD feel.

Be S.M.A.R.T.

Slow down

(e)Mphasize

Add visual

Repeat instructions

Time to respond

To elaborate on this further:

S: Slow down (your speech). Children with DLD need extra time to process speech and language. If you speak too quickly, they miss information.

M: Emphasize key points (see what I did there?). Children with DLD need support with receptive language skills. If you add emphasis, this helps clue them into the critical words and important information.

A: Add a visual, gesture, or cue. Children with DLD benefit from extra hints and visual aids.

R: Repeat instructions, two or three times. Repetition of verbal stimuli is highly beneficial for children with DLD.

T: Time needed to respond is longer. Children with DLD need extra time to formulate their responses, so we must be patient with them.

Let them take the lead

Provide an opportunity for the student to give the instructions or directions or make up the rules during an open-ended game. This role develops creativity while boosting expressive language and pragmatic skills. Many children love to “play teacher” and this activity decreases pressure. Following the child’s lead also builds rapport with the child.

Unstructured or open-ended activities

Unstructured or opened-ended activities give children the chance to show generalization of skills. Intentional silence allows a child to initiate interaction. It also gives the opportunity to demonstrate other skills or areas of need.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child, we encourage you to contact Orlando’s First Words Therapy. We take a holistic approach to speech-language-therapy to help your child communicate more effectively.