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.