Developmental Language Disorder

Developmental Language Disorder

Top tips of how to help a child or young person with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD):

  • Get the student’s attention –Get down to their level, say their name and be face to face.  Remember students with DLD are more likely to need learning breaks.
  • Reduce your Language- use short simple sentences. Say things in the order they need to be done.  Slow your talking down to allow for processing time.
  • Show them- Use visual supports such as pictures, signs and demonstrations.
  • Summarise- After you have given your input to the class summarise what you have said.
  • Link words- Student’s with DLD don’t learn new words easily. Link new or harder words to simpler ones.
  • Comment rather than question – Asking lots of questions can be difficult and pressurising. Comment on what they are doing.
  • Check understanding- Check the student understands what has been asked of them.
  • Don’t assume- Many children with DLD have associated literacy difficulties that are likely to be impacting on self- esteem and learning engagement. Don’t assume that they will able to read or write without support.

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