What is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)?

A Guide for all parents, and families to enhance your child’s language skills at home  

Communication is a cornerstone of learning and growth, and at Robertson State School, we are committed to supporting every child’s journey in developing effective language skills. This article will focus on what parents can do to enhance their child’s language skills within the home environment.  

We will also delve further to explore what exactly the diagnosis of Developmental Language Disorder is and what it means for students who may be diagnosed with language challenges at school. We believe that by understanding and addressing DLD, we can help to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all learners.  

What is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)? 

Developmental Language Disorder is a condition that affects a child’s ability to acquire and use language appropriately through verbally expressing themselves and also through comprehending what they may see written or what they may hear. It can impact a student’s vocabulary, grammar and comprehension skills.  

Symptoms of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): 

• Limited vocabulary for age  
• Difficulty forming sentences 
• Challenges understanding and using grammar 
• Difficulties following directions or understanding complex language  
• Difficulties making friends and making social connections 

Here are some teacher tips that teacher/s may already be doing to help all students to enhance their language skills and students with DLD: 

Creating a Language-Rich Environment: 

• Using visuals, and gestures to support verbal instructions 
• Integrate vocabulary-building activities into daily lessons 
• Encourage peer collaboration to enhance language skills through interaction

Providing Clear Instructions: 

• Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps 
• Using visuals such as charts or diagrams to reinforce verbal instructions 
• Allowing extra time for processing and responding.

Promoting Social Interaction: 

• Facilitating structured group activities to encourage communication 
• Fostering a supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves 

Tips to enhance your child’s language skills at home: 

Encouraging Daily Conversations: 

• Engaging in meaningful conversations with your child about their day 
• Asking open-ended questions to promote expressive language skills 
• Sharing stories and experiences with your child to enhance their narrative abilities 

Reading Together: 

• Making reading a daily habit to help build upon their literacy skills  
• Discussing the story, characters and plot to target your child’s comprehension skills  
• Encourage your child to predict what might happen next e.g., if you are watching tv or playing a game and ask them to describe what might occur next.

Playing Games that Enhance Language Skills: 

• Board games, puzzles and card games can be a fun and educational way to engage with your child 
• Incorporate activities that involve describing, categorising, and comparing  

By creating a rich learning environment within your family home, we can all work together to create an environment that supports the unique needs of every child, including those with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) or language needs. Your partnership with us is invaluable in ensuring each student at Robertson State School reaches their full potential.  

With warm regards, and until next time, 

Morgan Johnson  

Speech-Language Pathologist  

Robertson State School (Wednesdays & Thursdays)