A speech and language disability is a deficiency in either expressive or receptive processing of language.
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A speech disability is characterized by difficulty in articulation of words. Examples include stuttering or problems producing particular sounds (e.g. "th").
A language disability is a specific impairment in understanding and sharing thoughts and ideas, i.e. a disorder that involves the processing of linguistic information. Problems that may be experienced can involve grammar (syntax and/or morphology), semantics (meaning), or other aspects of language.
An individual can have one or both disorders. They are identified by a speech and language pathologist, who administers tests such as the CELF (Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals).
Speech and language disabilities can be one of the earliest types of disabilites to identify. This is because some of the symptoms are noted because of a lack of social integration, failure to reach developmental hallmarks and the palpable lack of expression in young children.[1] However, if an educator is not trained or informed of the characteristics, the disability can be unnoticed for years. This can cause regression in essential verbal expression skills and lead to low academic achievement.
Like all types of disabilities, there is no cure for a speech and language impairement, but there are effective therapies. Students identified with a speech and language disability often qualify for an Individualized Education Plan as well as particular services. These include one-on-one services with a speech and language pathologist. Examples used in a session include reading vocabulary words, identifying particular vowel sounds and then changing the context, noting the difference. School districts in the United States often have speech and language pathologists within a special education staff to work with students. Additionally, school districts can place students with speech and language disabilities in a resource room for individualized instruction. A combination of early intervention and individualized support has shown promise increasing long-term academic achievement with students with this disability.[2]
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