Communication and Language Difficulties

Difficulties understanding or using spoken language.

Draft for review by Charis specialists

Some people find it hard to understand what others say, to express their own ideas, or both. This is sometimes called a developmental language disorder or a speech and language difficulty.

What you might notice

  • Needing instructions repeated, or following only part of them.
  • Knowing what they want to say but not finding the words.
  • Speech that is hard for people outside the family to understand.
  • Losing track in group conversations.

How to help

Speak clearly and simply, one instruction at a time. Give time to answer. Use pictures and gestures. A speech and language therapist can assess and help.