Understanding Developmental Language Disorder

What Is Developmental Language Disorder?

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition where a child has persistent difficulties with understanding and using spoken language that are not explained by hearing loss, intellectual disability, or another known medical condition. DLD was previously known by several names including specific language impairment (SLI), and the current terminology was adopted to improve consistency and awareness.

DLD is one of the most common developmental conditions, affecting approximately two children in every classroom of 30. Despite this, it is significantly less well-known than conditions like dyslexia or ADHD. The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and the RADLD (Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder) campaign have been working to improve recognition.

Children with DLD may struggle to express themselves clearly, find it hard to understand what others say, or both. The difficulties are not related to intelligence; children with DLD are often bright and capable but find that language does not come naturally to them in the way it does for their peers.

Signs of DLD to Look For

DLD can affect both expressive language, what a child says, and receptive language, what they understand. Signs vary depending on age, but you may want to seek advice if your child was slow to start talking and continues to have difficulty putting sentences together, frequently struggles to find the right words or uses vague language like thing or stuff, has difficulty following instructions, especially those with multiple steps, finds it hard to retell a story or explain what happened during their day, or seems to understand less than other children of the same age.

At school age, DLD can affect reading, writing, and learning across all subjects, not just English. Children with DLD may also experience social difficulties because conversation with peers requires quick language processing and formulation. They may become frustrated, withdrawn, or disruptive when they cannot express themselves.

Because DLD is less visible than many conditions, children are sometimes perceived as not paying attention, not trying, or having behavioural difficulties. Recognising that language is the underlying issue is often the key to unlocking the right support.

How DLD Is Assessed

DLD is assessed by a speech and language therapist (SLT) using a combination of standardised language assessments, observation, and detailed developmental history. The therapist will evaluate both receptive and expressive language skills, looking at vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, narrative ability, and the child's use of language in conversation.

The assessment will also consider whether the language difficulties are persistent, having been present from early childhood, and whether they are likely to have a significant impact on everyday communication and learning. The CATALISE consortium, an international panel of experts, developed criteria that are now widely used for identifying DLD.

Through ChildWize, you can connect with speech and language therapists who are registered with the HCPC and the RCSLT and have expertise in assessing and supporting children with DLD. You do not need a referral from your GP to book. Online assessments allow the therapist to observe your child's communication in their natural environment, which can be particularly informative.

How ChildWize Supports Children with DLD

ChildWize connects families with speech and language therapists who can provide ongoing therapy tailored to your child's specific language profile. Therapy for DLD is typically delivered over an extended period, with regular sessions focused on the areas where your child needs the most support.

Intervention may include targeted vocabulary work to build your child's word knowledge, structured activities to develop grammar and sentence construction, narrative therapy to help your child tell stories and recount events, and strategies for improving comprehension of spoken and written language. The therapist will also provide you with activities and techniques to practise at home, as consistent reinforcement between sessions is one of the most important factors in making progress.

Your therapist can also provide guidance and recommendations for school, helping teachers understand how DLD affects your child's learning and what adaptations may help, such as pre-teaching key vocabulary, simplifying instructions, and allowing extra processing time.

Living with DLD

DLD is a lifelong condition, but with the right support, children with DLD can develop strong communication skills and achieve well academically and socially. Early intervention is particularly important because language underpins so much of learning and social interaction.

Some families find it helpful to speak in shorter, clearer sentences when giving instructions, allow extra time for the child to process and respond, use visual supports such as pictures, gestures, and written key words alongside spoken language, and read together regularly, discussing stories and building vocabulary in a relaxed setting.

It is also important to focus on your child's strengths. Many children with DLD have excellent non-verbal reasoning, practical skills, and creativity. Building confidence in these areas helps to balance out the frustration that language difficulties can cause.

DLD Awareness Day, held each year in October, is a growing campaign that helps families, schools, and professionals recognise this common but often hidden condition. ChildWize specialists are passionate about raising awareness and ensuring that children with DLD get the support they deserve.