What is Developmental Language Disorder or DLD?
Developmental Language Disorder or DLD is one of the most common, (1 in 14 people) yet least known neurodevelopmental conditions and is described as a hidden disability. It co-occurs with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia and autism.
The impact of undiagnosed language difficulties can significantly affect educational, social, mental health/wellbeing and employment.
Children and adults with language difficulties can experience some or all of the below:
- Find it difficult to understand language and process information
- Find it hard to follow instructions
- Find it difficult to answer questions
- Struggle to put words and thoughts together in a way that is easily understood by others
- Find it difficult to follow and join in a conversation
Who can assess and diagnose DLD or language difficulties?
A qualified speech and language therapist can assess and diagnose language difficulties and DLD.
To find out more about DLD, please watch the short, animated video by Lily Farrington:
Fees start from £80 for a brief language assessment.
Did you know
Recent research has shown that, on average, 2 children in every class of 30 will experience DLD severe enough to hinder academic progress. Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is the new term to replace Specific Language Impairment (SLI). Developmental Language Disorder is diagnosed when children fail to develop language as expected. This results in children who have difficulty understanding what people say to them, and struggle to articulate their ideas and feelings (RADLD).