Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

What is DLD?

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a hidden disability.

People with DLD make more errors or use simpler sentences or even have trouble organising a conversation
DLD emerges in early childhood but persists into adulthood
DLD affects people around the world, no matter the language spoken
DLD is common. In one study, 1 in 14 children demonstrated symptoms of DLD
DLD can affect social and emotional well-being as well as success at school and work
The term DLD replaced SLI (Specific Language Impairment) in 2017

Education provision in Plymouth for children and young people with DLD

Entry and exit criteria

Children and young people may be considered for placements with the Early Years Specialist Team for Speech and Language (EY Team), and in the Specialist Speech and Language Support Centres (LSCs) in Plymouth.

Children should be displaying clear indicators of DLD (these are likely to include problems with understanding spoken language and / or forming sentences, using grammar, learning and using vocabulary) and this term should be used where appropriate.
For children who are referred to the EY Team, while it is necessary for them to be displaying strong indicators of DLD, the diagnostic term is not recommended by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists for use with children under 5 years old. This is due to the neuroplasticity of a child's brain before the age of 5, the potential for their communication needs to resolve, and hence them not experiencing the enduring language needs which define DLD.
Children who have severe Speech Sound Disorders (SSD) are also often appropriate for placements within Specialist LSCs. SSDs have a functional impact restricting children's abilities to demonstrate their knowledge and learning and integrate socially. Research indicates that these children also have a poor prognosis without specialist intervention.

Find out more about the entry and exit criteria