Receptive Language Disorder
Information taken from Cincinnati Children’s
WHAT IS A RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE DISORDER?
A receptive language disorder is difficulty understanding the words or messages used by others. This type of difficulty is common in children. A receptive language disorder may also occur in conjunction with an expressive language disorder.
WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE DISORDER?
Children with a receptive language disorder may have difficulties with any of the following:
- Following directions
- Answering questions
- Learning new concepts
- Organizing thoughts
- Understanding other people
Younger children with a receptive language disorder typically have difficulty with expressive language as they do not understand language or how to use it. A child must understand language before they are able to use it.
WHAT CAUSES A RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE DISORDER?
The cause of a receptive language disorder is often unknown; however some known causes include the following:
- Hearing loss
- Cognitive disability
- Brain damage
- Autism
- Emotional disturbance
- Poor environment
HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD AT HOME?
Here are some tips that may help you at home:
- Give simple commands (give your child help if he / she can’t do it)
- Ask simple questions
- Give choices
- Use sign language
- Use simple language
- Talk about what your child is paying attention to in the exact moment
OUR APPROACH AT KEY THERAPIES:
We will develop an individualized treatment plan for each child based off of his / her current needs. We will work on improving receptive language skills by utilizing techniques and strategies that will be taught to caregivers so that follow-through can be completed at home.