Language Processing Disorder - 12 Easy Steps to Boost Receptive Language

Posted by Erica Warren on Mar 25, 2021

The spoken word gives human’s an incredible advantage over other species, but for those that struggle with language processing, this “invisible difficulty,” can create countless challenges. What’s more, this problem often goes unnoticed and many of these students are misunderstood and mislabeled as inattentive, careless, lazy absent-minded, and defiant.

improve receptive and expressive language

What is a Language Processing Disorder?

Language processing disorders are not uncommon, and it is a difficulty that impacts communication and social relations. This disorder can impact a student’s ability to understand language (receptive language) and/or express their thoughts (expressive language). Like many cognitive based challenges, it can manifest in a variety of ways. One student might struggle to outline their thoughts, while another might battle with accessing the right word or name from their memory banks, following a sequence of directives, or even maintaining attention. In addition, a student may experience difficulties with either receptive language or expressive language. Some struggle with a combination: expressive/receptive language disorder.

Signs and Symptoms of Language Processing Difficulties

There are a number of signs and symptoms that can serve as red flags for language processing problems.

Common Expressive Language Difficulties:
Develops the ability to speak later than most youngsters
Struggles with weak vocabulary and learning new words
Confusions with verb tenses
Frustrates with word finding difficulties
Troubles communicating thoughts
Jumbles words and says things that are nonsensical
Repeats themselves when telling stories or answering questions
Difficulties expressing ideas in writing

Common Receptive Language Difficulties:

Appears disinterested or distracted when in conversation or social interactions
Misinterprets or misunderstands verbal or written directives
Appears shy or withdrawn
Struggles understanding sarcasm or jokes
Difficulties with reading comprehension
Troubles telling jokes

Getting Tested for Language Processing Disorders

If the warning signs listed above describe a child, the next step is to pursue an evaluation. You can acquire testing with a local speech and language pathologist, or if the child is in school, one can request that the local public school conduct a free evaluation. Even if the child is in a private school, testing can be requested at your local school district.

12 Easy Treatment Options for Language Processing Disorders

If a language disorder is present or suspected, individual sessions with a speech and language professional or educational therapist can help develop the needed skills. As another option, you can acquire tools that can help to develop these skills. Here are 12 different resources. If you select the title, you can learn more about these products.

I hope you found this blog helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out and contact me at erica@goodsensorylearning.com.