What is Expressive Language Disorder?
As a parent, watching your child struggle to express their thoughts and feelings can be heartbreaking.
If your little one has difficulty forming sentences, finding the right words, or communicating clearly, they may be experiencing Expressive Language Disorder (ELD). This condition affects a child’s ability to use words and sentences effectively, even when they understand what others are saying.
The good news is that early intervention and the right support can make a world of difference. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Expressive Language Disorder, from its causes to practical management approaches.
What is Expressive Language Disorder?
Expressive Language Disorder (ELD) is a communication problem. It makes it difficult for people to share their thoughts or ideas or show that they understand what others are saying.
This can happen anywhere — at school, home, and anywhere else people interact.
Children with ELD may have trouble making sentences that sound right. They might also need more time to answer questions or join a conversation, making it harder for them to talk with others, make friends, and build relationships.
Signs of Expressive Language Disorder
Expressive language disorder is usually developmental, with signs appearing in early childhood and continuing into adulthood. People with this disorder often struggle to express their thoughts clearly.
Common symptoms include:
- Having a smaller vocabulary than others their age
- Having difficulty finding the right words
- Incorrect grammar and sentence structure
- Speaking in short phrases or simple sentences
- Using the wrong words in a sentence
- Frequent pauses or hesitations when speaking
- Trouble retelling stories or describing events
- Frustration or avoidance of verbal communication
- Being late to start talking as a child
- Speaking in a very quiet voice
If your child shows these expressive language disorder symptoms, a pediatric neurologist can help improve their communication skills.
Causes of Expressive Language Disorder
There isn’t a single clear cause of expressive language disorder. Genetics may play a role, as language difficulties often run in families. Expressive language challenges can sometimes be linked to Down syndrome or autism.
It can also result from issues during pregnancy or birth, as well as brain injury or illness.
How Expressive Language Disorder is Diagnosed?
An expressive language disorder diagnosis typically involves a pediatric neurologist reviewing the child’s developmental milestones, medical history, and any family history of language or learning difficulties.
The neurologist will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which may include:
- Hearing test: To rule out hearing impairment as the cause of language difficulties
- Auditory processing test: To evaluate how the brain processes language sounds
- Learning disabilities testing: To determine if other neurological factors are contributing to language differences
- Cognitive functioning assessment: To check for any intellectual disabilities
The neurologist will compare the child’s expressive language skills to typical development for their age. Children with expressive language disorder may have difficulty using language in a way that matches their peers’ abilities.
How Expressive Language Disorder Can Be Managed?
The most effective treatment for expressive language disorder is speech-language therapy. A licensed pediatric neurologist works with your child to:
- Improve vocabulary and word retrieval skills
- Strengthen sentence structure and grammar
- Practice forming complete and clear sentences
- Enhance storytelling and narrative skills
For those who struggle significantly with verbal communication, alternative tools like picture boards or augmentative communication devices can help them express themselves. These tools may involve using pictures, symbols, or text to communicate effectively.
With early intervention and ongoing support, individuals with expressive language disorder can improve their communication skills and successfully navigate various social and educational settings.
Consult Dr Arif Khan for Expressive Language Disorder Management in Dubai
Dr Arif Khan, a British Board-certified Consultant Pediatric Neurologist with over 20 years of experience, specialises in diagnosing and managing expressive language disorders. He founded Neuropedia and Kids Neuro Clinic, the first comprehensive children’s neuroscience centre in the region, and has helped countless children overcome communication challenges.
