Coping with Expressive Language Disorders

Speech Disorders
Speech Therapist Working with Child on Vocabulary

Image source: bryanking.net

Expressive language refers to the way in which a person expresses his ideas or feelings verbally or nonverbally. Receptive language refers to the ability of a person to understand another person’s communication. A child could have a mixed expressive and receptive language disorder or just an expressive language disorder. A developmental expressive language disorder has no known cause, while an acquired disorder is generally the result of a traumatic brain injury or a similar medical problem.

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Best Apps for Elementary School Kids

Speech Therapy Techniques
Child Using iPad App

Image source: blog.childandfamilydevelopment.com

Speech therapy is going digital. Many speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are beginning to incorporate iPhone and iPad apps into speech therapy sessions. This high-tech education helps engage children in the learning process.

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Should You Use an App For That?

Speech Therapy Techniques
Person Using iPhone

Image source: slpsharing.com

There are apps for everything from finding the nearest public restroom to keeping track of your workout routine. Lady Gaga even has her own app. A lot of these downloads are glorified time-wasters, but there are a few diamonds in the rough. If your child seems inattentive during his usual speech therapy routine, try introducing him to a speech therapy app.

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How to Use the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

Speech Therapy Techniques
Sample PECS Cards

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What Is It?

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a system to assist people in communication who are unable to do so through speech. The system uses picture cards for communication. It is one method that a child with a severe speech disorder can use to indicate his basic needs and wants. This reduces the child’s frustration and his social isolation.

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Using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices

Speech Therapy Techniques
Children Using AAC Devices

Image source: CLASS, Inc.

Speech disorders can range from problems with articulation to problems speaking any words at all, such as selective mutism. Children who cannot speak at all or those who speak very little have difficulty expressing their basic needs and wants. This can become frustrating for them, which may sometimes result in behavioral issues. One solution is providing your child with an alternative means of communication.

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