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Developmental Language Disorder

All About Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

Children with Language Disorder are as able and healthy as other children. With one exception, they have great difficulty thinking about, understanding and using language. They are often as intelligent as other children their age, but still have difficulties with language. There may be no outward signs of disability and no obvious physical indicators of a problem. For this reason, Language Disorder is also known as a ‘hidden disability’ affecting 1 in 14 children.

The Functional Impact in DLD

DLD can have a significant impact on a child’s everyday interactions and educational progress including:

  • emotional and self-regulation difficulties
  • behavioural problems
  • problems with peer interactions skills and quality of their friendships
  • peer victimization and bullying
  • academic learning difficulties

Parent Resources

Video – Signs of a Developmental Language Disorder

Video – Developmental Language Disorders explained by Kids

Video – Supporting Children with DLD in the Classroom 

Video –  Developmental Language Disorder: The Consensus Explained

Myths About Developmental Language Disorder

Why is DLD Hard to Recognize? 

The Many Terms Used for DLD

The Value of a Label: Some Considerations for Parents Who Suspect DLD

What Can Educators Do to Help Children Who Struggle with Oral Language Skills? 

Additional Websites on DLD

Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder   

DLD and Me