Understanding Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): A Guide for SENCOs and Teachers

Understanding Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): A Guide for SENCOs and Teachers

by | Oct 18, 2024

Understanding Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): A Guide for SENCOs and Teachers

Understanding Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): A Guide for SENCOs and Teachers

by | Oct 18, 2024

This informative session on Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) brings together expert insights from leading professionals in speech and language therapy and education. The panel, including Angharad Welsh, Martha Currie, Yin Collighan, and Sally Wells, explores the intricacies of DLD, a common yet underdiagnosed condition that affects how children understand and use language. Designed for SENCOs, teachers, and parents, this session provides a comprehensive overview of DLD, practical strategies to support affected children, and collaboration tips to ensure optimal outcomes in the classroom and beyond.

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Why SENCOs Should Watch:

As a SENCO, understanding and supporting children with language difficulties is essential for their success in both education and social development. This video will equip you with the knowledge and tools to:

  • Recognise and diagnose the signs of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) early.
  • Implement classroom strategies that reduce cognitive load and support students’ language processing abilities.
  • Use visual tools, such as Widget symbols, to aid comprehension and communication for students with DLD.
  • Foster collaboration between speech therapists, teachers, and parents to build a unified approach to supporting children with DLD.
  • Empower parents with the knowledge to support their child’s language development and advocacy for speech and language services.

Key Takeaways:

What is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)?

Developmental Language Disorder is a lifelong condition that affects 1 in 7 to 1 in 14 children, impacting their ability to understand and use language. The session emphasises the importance of early identification and targeted support strategies.

Using Visual Aids:

Visual tools like Widget symbols play a vital role in supporting children with DLD by offering clear, concise representations of language, which aids in vocabulary development and comprehension.

Collaboration is Key:

Effective collaboration between speech therapists, SENCOs, teachers, and parents is critical in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for children with DLD.


Classroom and Home Support Strategies:

  • Reducing Cognitive Load: In the classroom, reducing the amount of language children are expected to process and providing them with more time to respond can be critical for success.
  • Visual Support: Incorporating visual aids throughout the learning environment helps students process language at their own pace and reduces anxiety.
  • Executive Functioning Support: Help children with DLD build independent learning strategies by teaching study skills, note-taking, and scaffolding support.
  • Parent Involvement: Parents are crucial in reinforcing language development strategies at home, especially by creating structured routines and maintaining open communication about their child’s needs.

Recognising Signs of DLD:

It’s essential to be aware of the subtle signs of DLD, including difficulties with vocabulary, grammar, and following instructions. SENCOs and teachers should observe how children interact in both social and learning environments to spot potential language disorders early.


Involving Parents and Carers:

Parents are a key part of the support network for children with DLD. This session highlights the importance of maintaining open communication with parents, helping them understand the signs of DLD, and providing tools to support their child’s language development at home.


Tools and Resources:

  • The session introduces Widget symbols, which provide visual clarity for students struggling with language processing.
  • The Speech and Language Link offers standardised screening and resources for diagnosing and supporting children with DLD.
  • The DLD Project and RADLD are recommended for further resources and community support.

SENCOs and educators can also access additional resources through SENsible SENCO, including our Quality First Teaching (QFT) series and our SENCO Resources for more content on supporting children with special educational needs.

Take Action: Support Students with DLD Today!

Empower your classroom with the right tools to support children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). Our Quality First Teaching (QFT) Series, including QFT 0 – Adaptive Teaching, provides practical strategies to help SENCOs and educators adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of all students, including those with DLD.

Key Benefits of QFT 0 – Adaptive Teaching:

  • Learn how to adjust your teaching in real-time to support language difficulties.
  • Discover scaffolding techniques to help students understand complex language concepts.
  • Implement strategies that reduce cognitive load and promote independent learning.

Order your copy today and get access to practical classroom strategies that support language development for children with DLD.

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