Communication Disorders in Children With Disabilities
Speech, language, and hearing disorders often go undetected and untreated.
By Krista Healy, SLP; Sophie Lehar, SLP; Kseniya Naturina Fenner, SLP.
With 11% of children ages 3–6 having a speech, language, voice, or swallowing disorder - and almost 15% of school-age children experiencing some degree of hearing loss - communication disorders are among the most common disabilities in children nationwide. During May, which is Better Hearing and Speech Month, we encourage families to learn the early signs and seek an assessment if they have concerns.
Communication disorders are treatable, yet all too often, we find parents are waiting to bring their child in for an evaluation. Timely intervention is important, as untreated speech/language and hearing disorders can lead to problems with reading and writing, academic success, social interactions and behavioral problems. These disorders are highly treatable and, in some cases, can be reversed or even prevented. If you have any concern, don’t wait. Trust your instincts and get it checked out.
Hearing loss is evaluated and treated by audiologists. Speech and language disorders are evaluated and treated by speech-language pathologists. Warning signs of these disorders are listed below.
Language Disorders
- Does not smile or interact with others (birth and older)
- Does not babble (4 - 7 months)
- Makes only a few sounds or gestures, like pointing (7 - 12 months)
- Does not understand what others say (7 months - 2 years)
- Says only a few words (12 - 18 months)
- Words are not easily understood (18 months - 2 years)
- Does not put words together to make sentences (1.5 - 3 years)
- Has trouble playing and talking with other children (2 - 3 years)
- Has trouble with early reading and writing skills (2.5 - 3 years)
Speech Sound Disorders
- Says p, b, m, h, and w incorrectly in words (1 - 2 years)
- Says k, g, f, t, d, and n incorrectly in words (2 - 3 years)
- Produces speech that is unclear, even to familiar people (2 - 3 years)
Stuttering
- Repeats first sounds of words—“b-b-b-ball” for “ball”
- Speech breaks while trying to say a word—“-----boy” for “boy”
- Stretches sounds out—“ffffff-farm” for “farm”
- Shows frustration when trying to speak
Voice Disorders
- Uses a hoarse or breathy voice
- Uses a nasal-sounding voice
Hearing Loss
- Shows a lack of attention to sounds (birth - 1 year)
- Does not respond when you call their name (7 months - 1 year)
- Does not follow simple directions (1 - 2 years)
- Shows delays in speech and language development (birth - 3 years)
- Pulls or scratches at their ears
- Has difficulty achieving academically, especially in reading and math
- Is socially isolated and unhappy at school
- Has persistent ear discomfort after exposure to loud noise (regular and constant listening to electronics at high volumes)
Families can learn more about these signs, get tips for helping their child, and find a searchable database of the professionals who treat communication disorders here.
At CHA we have speech-language pathologists offering support for a wide variety of communication disorders. Please contact the CHA Rehabilitation Department at 617-591-4600 with questions.
Disclaimer
This articles provide general information for educational purposes only. The information provided in this article, or through linkages to other sites, is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, call consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider.