Development of Language and Speech Merrie J. Kaas, Ph.D, APRN, PMHCNS, FAAN Professor, University of Minnesota Fulbright Scholar, University of akureyri

Twin babies talking: Do they have language? Listening to Children Speech is making the sounds that become words-the physical act of talking. Language is our system of using words to communicate. It includes using words and gestures to say what we mean, and understanding what others say. Twin babies talking: Do they have language? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JmA2ClUvUY

Stages of Development See Handouts

Language Delays Language delays (pronouncing words but not in an order): about 60% of language delays in children under 3 years of age resolve spontaneously and are a result of developmental delays, not pathology Common circumstances for language delays are: Concentration on physical skills Siblings who interpret for the child Inadequate stimulation for language development Bilingualism Psychosocial deprivation

Speech Delays Common circumstances for language delays are Speech delays (can use words and phrases but is difficult to understand) Common circumstances for language delays are Oral impairments (cleft palate) Oral-motor problems (difficulty coordinating lips) Hearing problems (chronic ear infections)

Physical Problems Causing Language Delays Neurological impairments such as autism, mental retardation, cerebral palsy Hearing impairment Congenital blindness Learning disability Klinefelter syndrome: males with extra X chromosome

Consequences of Delays Receptive aphasia: A developmental disorder in which a child has difficulty comprehending spoken and written language Expressive aphasia: A developmental disorder in which a child has lower-than-normal proficiency in vocabulary, production of complex sentences, and word recall, although language comprehension is normal. Behavioral problems Social/relationship concerns

Speech Sound Disorders Prevention Talk, read, and play with your child every day. –Children learn sounds and words by hearing and seeing them. •Take care of your child’s teeth and mouth. •Have your child’s hearing checked. •Have your child’s speech screened at a local clinic or school.

Voice Disorders Prevention Try not to shout or scream, or to talk in noisy places. •Drink plenty of water. –Water keeps the mouth and throat moist. •Avoid alcohol, caffeine, chemical fumes (such as from cleaning products), and smoking. •See a doctor if you have allergies or sinus or respiratory infections.

Language Disorder Prevention In children –talk and read with your child –have your child’s hearing checked regularly –learn about speech and language development –don’t drink or use drugs while you are pregnant –be sure that your child uses a helmet and seat –belt to prevent accidents that cause brain injury

Language Disorder Prevention Language disorders in adults are often caused by brain injury or stroke. •Reduce risk factors for stroke by –stopping smoking –keeping your blood pressure down •Use helmets and seat belts to prevent brain injury.