ArticulationMany children experience difficulty when attempting to produce intelligible (clear and understandable) speech. When children struggle with the correct production of speech sounds, it makes it difficult for listeners to understand what they are saying. Speech sound production occurs on a developmental basis according to a child’s chronological age. Some children may acquire skills more quickly than others.
90% of Children Have Mastered These Sounds...By Age p, d, m, w, h, n 2 years old t, b, k, g 3 years old f, v, y 4-5 years old s, z, j, l, r, sh, ch, th, blends 5-7 years old Mawhinney and McTeague (2004) |
Expressive LanguageExpressive language is the use of words, sentences, gestures and writing to convey meaning and messages to others. Expressive language skills include being able to label objects in the environment, describe actions and events, put words together in sentences, use grammar correctly, retell a story, answer questions and write short story.
Expressive language is important because it enables children to be able to express their wants and needs, thoughts and ideas, argue a point of view, develop their use of language in writing and engage in successful interactions with others. |
Receptive LanguageReceptive language is the ability to understand words and language. It involves gaining information and meaning from routine, visual information within the environment, sounds and words, concepts such as size, shape, colors and time, grammar and written information.
Receptive language is important in order to communicate successfully, follow instructions and respond appropriately to questions and requests. Within the school setting, difficulties in understanding may lead to attention and listening difficulties. It may also make it difficult for a child to access the curriculum or engage in the activities and academic tasks. |