Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

What is DLD?

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a lifelong condition that affects how children understand and use language. It happens when the brain processes language differently, making talking and understanding what others say more difficult for which there is no obvious cause. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition.

How is DLD diagnosed?

A Speech and Language Therapist may diagnose DLD when a child’s language difficulties:

  • are likely to persist as they grow older (above the age of 5)
  • have a noticeable impact at school, or in everyday life
  • are not expected to improve without specialist support
  • cannot be fully explained by other factors such as hearing difficulties or autism

What causes DLD?

The exact cause of DLD is not known.

It is not caused by bilingualism or a limited exposure to language. It is also not caused by other medical conditions such as hearing loss, physical impairment, autism, severe learning difficulties, or brain injuries.

Research suggests that the parts of the brain responsible for understanding and using language may work in a slightly different way in children with DLD, although these differences don’t show up on brain scans.

Genetics can also play a role, but there isn’t currently a medical test to confirm DLD.

DLD is not caused by parents.

How common is DLD?

DLD is quite common – it affects about 7% of children, or roughly two in every classroom of 30 pupils. This means it is more common than autism. Speech and Language Therapists across our borough regularly identify and support children with DLD.

How does DLD affect a child?

Children with DLD may find it difficult to understand what is said to them and to express their thoughts clearly. They might:

  • struggle to learn and remember new words
  • find it hard to follow instructions or answer questions
  • have trouble putting words together in sentences that make sense
  • sound unclear or disorganised when speaking
  • find it difficult to keep up with classroom learning or join in conversations with friends

With the right support, children with DLD can thrive at school — both in their learning and in building friendships. They may learn in a different way, so understanding their individual learning style and providing the right help is key to helping them lead happy and fulfilling lives.

How can I support a child with DLD?

Children and young people with DLD often benefit from the following approaches:

  • Use visuals – add gestures, signs, pictures, drawings, or videos to support understanding
  • Encourage visual communication – help your child use pictures or gestures to get their message across
  • Keep language simple and consistent – repeat key words and phrases often
  • Give plenty of time – children with DLD need extra time to think about what’s been said and to respond
  • Build confidence – as your child grows, help them learn to explain their needs and ask for help
  • Learn more together – parents can watch our DLD video to find out more about the condition and strategies to support their child.
  • Older children may also have difficulties reading and using written language.

DLD video for parents and carers

 

Books for children DLD

Written by parents, individuals with DLD, and professionals, these books introduce children to Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) in a way that is accessible and constructive.

Meet DLD by Loren Crisp

Shelbi was diagnosed with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) as an adult which inspired her to write the DLD; Why Can't You See Me? Poem. The poem has now been adapted into a children's illustrated book which aims to help raise awareness and understanding of DLD. To give readers an valuable insight, understanding, compassion and empathy for the daily challenge those with DLD may face.

Dan and the Paper Airplane by Camesha Russell and Jinean Cheng

In the Dan and Daria series, kids with DLD finally get to see themselves in the pages of a book! As they journey with Dan and Daria, kids with DLD can be inspired to face their own challenges. Friends, teachers, and family members can gain a deeper understanding and empathy for those who sometimes have trouble with words.

Oscar finds the treasure by Julie Alison McDonald, Anna Emilia and Becky Clark

Meet Oscar and his friends who go on a treasure hunt and have great fun searching for clues and solving them together. Oscar is a smart otter who sometimes finds understanding words and talking tricky. In the story, we hear how Oscar uses different strategies to help him to communicate with his friends. These helpful tips are reinforced by Ladybird Jemima at the bottom of each of the relevant pages. 

Harry’s Story by Kate Kempton

Harry enjoys school, but faces daily challenges due to his language difficulties. When he is asked to write a story, he struggles to find the words to put his thoughts onto paper. He learns to share his stories through pictures instead and, in doing so, helps his supportive teacher understand what she can do to make life easier for him.

DLD through the lens of children

The videos below offer a glimpse into how children themselves perceive and describe their experiences with DLD.

Videos about DLD

Other sources of help and support

Afasic supports and provides information for families with children and young adults who have Speech Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) with a focus on Developmental Language Disorder (DLD).

Afasic DLD card — purchase a low cost, credit card sized, laminated card explaining to others what DLD is, and how they can help.

DLD and Me website — a useful resource for older children and teens, and provides advice to parents and teachers.

Moor House Research and Training Institute offers a range of courses and webinars to help schools and teachers support pupils with DLD.

NAPLIC has short videos and helpful leaflets to support families and schools. They are a national organisation of teachers, speech and language therapists and other professionals.

Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder (RADLD) – this website was created to raise awareness of DLD. It has resources that explain what DLD is, the impact it can have, how to get help and how to raise awareness.

Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists -   RCSLT is the professional body for SLTs in the UK, creating better lives for people with communication and swallowing needs. This website provides further clinical information about DLD.

Speech and Language UK is a charity providing information and advice for parents, and supporting children and young people to gain the skills they need so they aren’t left behind, waiting to be understood.

The DLD project – this website has podcasts and more resources for families and schools.