Language Disorders
What this means
Receptive language is how a child understands words, sentences, and directions. Expressive language is how a child uses words, sentences, gestures, or other ways to tell others what they think or need. Some children have stronger skills in one area than the other, and some struggle with both. These challenges can look different depending on a child’s age — for example, an infant who doesn’t respond to their name, a toddler who uses only a few words, or a school-age child who has trouble following classroom instructions or explaining ideas.
Why it matters
Language is how kids learn, play, and make friends. When a child has trouble understanding or expressing language, it can affect learning, behavior, confidence, and relationships. Early support helps families build everyday tools so children can participate more fully at home, in childcare or school, and with peers.
What to expect in therapy or coaching
Initial conversation and observation: We’ll start by listening to your concerns and gathering information about your child’s everyday language, play, and routines. If assessment is recommended, we may observe your child, use activities to see how they understand and use language, and gather input from caregivers and teachers.
Individualized goals: Based on what we learn, we work with you to set practical, functional goals. Goals focus on what matters most for your child — for example, following directions in class, asking for help, labeling items, or using longer sentences.
Play-based, child-centered sessions: Therapy is often built around play and real-life routines so skills generalize to everyday situations. For younger children we use toys, songs, and routines; for older children we use structured practice, role-play, classroom-style tasks, and real conversations.
Caregiver coaching: Caregivers are part of the plan. We show simple strategies you can use during meals, bath time, play, homework, and transitions so learning happens throughout the day — not just in the therapy room.
Collaboration and school support: When appropriate, we work with teachers and other providers to share goals, strategies, and progress ideas that fit the child’s daily environment.
Progress monitoring and next steps: Progress is tracked with games, observations, and feedback from family and school. If needs change, we adjust goals and strategies.
When to consider support
- Your child seems not to understand what you say for their age (names, simple directions, questions).
- Your child uses fewer words than other kids their age, or their sentences are much shorter than peers.
- Your child has trouble answering questions, telling stories, or following classroom directions.
- Communication struggles are affecting play, behavior, learning, or social connections.
How we help
- Play-based sessions that match your child’s interests and strengths.
- Family coaching with real-world strategies you can use every day.
- Goal-focused plans that fit school, home, and social needs.
- Collaboration with teachers and other professionals when helpful.
If you’re noticing language challenges, it’s okay to ask for help and learn simple ways to support your child. We’ll listen, explain options, and work with your family to build skills that matter in daily life.