DLD stands for Developmental Language Disorder, an internationally recognised, common but unfamiliar childhood condition that many people have never heard of…
4 things to know about DLD
1. Difficulties in the use and understanding of spoken language in the absence of an obvious cause 2. Affects all languages used 3. Emerges in early childhood and persists into adulthood 4. Interferes with academic and social interaction in day to day life
Having a conversation with someone with DLD ? The best three things you could do...
Tip 1. Give more Time (to understand you, and prepare their own replies)
(picture of two young asians in conversation)
Tip 2. Use Visuals (Handphone pictures; Gestures)
Tip 3. Use Simpler Language
Speech Therapy Helps children with DLD !
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpdjP0zHeBc&t=9s
Teachers and parents
Are you a teacher or parent looking to support someone with DLD? Here are a few ideas...
Teacher Tip 1: Hear how some teachers simplify language and break down instructions and teaching for students with DLD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNf-VHzClPE
Teacher Tip 2: Teachers share some visual cues teachers can integrate in classroom learning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yPR1UUtjec
Parent Tip 1: Watch how this parent attempt early language strategies and communication techniques to support their growth
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIRSBsS4i2k
Parent’s support: Hear how a parent gather support from her child’s immediate environment and practices self-advocacy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MKUgQUhDPM
Mental health
What does DLD have to do with Mental Health? Hear their stories and access local resources
Hear from a teenager with DLD about depression
Singaporean resource on addressing depression and anxiety
Hear about behaviours from parents of a DLD child
Singaporean resource on better behaviours
Watch why those with DLD should remain vigilant about mental health
Singaporean ongoing research on better mental health for DLD
https://twitter.com/ShaunKYGoh/status/1448946208781705221?s=20
Where can I get help?
Speak to your Doctor
We asked a local Pediatrician “What happens when parents concerned about their child’s language come to see you?” and this is what she said..
-Development : I would ask about your child’s development - as a baby, and beyond that to include birth, medical and family history
-Language : I would explore how well your child understands and expresses - do they use gestures/other methods to make their wants known. Are they better at communicating in the language used at home.
-Examination : I would carry out a physical examination and may do a hearing test, to see if there are medical conditions related to language.
We also asked “When should you be concerned about your child’s language development?” and she mentioned...
3-6 Months : Not responding to sound - child does not turn towards a sound
12 Months : No babbling, no imitation, limited use of gestures
18 Months : No first words
24 Months : Difficulty following simple instructions/directions, inconsistent response to “no”
And finally, “What can you do if you are concerned?
Teachers - Your child’s teacher may give information on how he/she is in class, such as responding to questions, interacts and plays with classmates, and how he/she does so.
Doctor/Paediatrician - Your doctor may do a developmental screen for your child and speak with you about options for further referrals if indicated. Referral to a Speech Language Therapist may be appropriate for assessment of language concerns