Receptive language refers to the ability to understand spoken and written words, sentences, and utterances. Expressive language refers to the ability to use gestures, sounds, words, and sentences to communicate with others through speech or writing. 

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Language delay is a delay in the acquisition of expressive and receptive language skills.  Your child may have a language delay if their expressive and receptive language skills develop more slowly compared to other children their age. Their language development follows a typical pattern but begins at a later age, progresses at a slower rate, and may therefore be equivalent to that of a typically developing child of a younger age.

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Children with receptive language delay may find it challenging to

 

• follow instructions

• respond to questions

• pay attention during group activities at daycare or school

• read and listen to stories 

• understand what is said or asked 

• understand age-appropriate vocabulary and concepts 

• stay engaged when others are speaking

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Children with expressive language delay may find it difficult to

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• answer questions

• retell a story 

• express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings

• express their wants and needs

• use the right words due to limited vocabulary

• initiate and participate in a conversation 

 

Early intervention is critical 

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Parents often ask themselves

 

- How do I know if my child has a language delay? 

- Should I wait until my child turns five before contacting a Speech-Language Pathologist because his paediatrician says that every child develops at their own pace?  

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All children progress at different rates, so parents and paediatricians sometimes overlook a child’s language delay. While every child develops at their own pace, most typically developing children reach language milestones by certain ages, from producing first sounds to forming sentences by age three. Research shows that the first three years of a child's life, when the brain is rapidly developing, are the most critical for speech and language skills. If this period passes without adequate language exposure, a developmental window closes, making language acquisition more challenging.

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When language difficulties persist beyond a certain age and cannot be explained by other factors, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, a child may be considered to have a language disorder. Children with language disorders often have normal nonverbal intelligence but experience specific difficulties with expressive and/or receptive language. These challenges can significantly impact school performance and the ability to establish and maintain relationships with peers. Children with language disorders may also develop learning disabilities at a later age. For more information click the LEARNING DISABILITIES section. 

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Contact us for a free consultation if you are concerned about your child's language or if your child isn’t meeting speech and language developmental milestones.  We will evaluate your child's communication skills and schedule a comprehensive assessment if necessary.  You can reach us at 647-848-2988, email at info@speechpartners.ca or fill out the online form.

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Services are available in the clinic, your home, online, school or child care facility.

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There are no waiting lists. 

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Funding is available for eligible families through various private and government assistance programs. For more information visit the FUNDING page.