Language Development, Disorders, and Support Strategies in Speech-Language Pathology

Receptive Language

The ability to comprehend spoken and written language or signed communication.

Expressive Language

The ability to use language for production, including spoken, written, and signed communication.

Alternative/augmented communication

Using technology to communicate, such as paper/pen, iPads, or advanced technology.

Semantics

The meaning of words.

Syntax

The formation and structure of sentences.

Morphology

The internal structure of words.

Pragmatics

The contextual and social meaning of language.

Does learning more than one language during development lead to language delay?

No, it does not lead to language delay, smaller vocabulary, or increased difficulty.

Reflexive Vocalizations

Vocalizations such as crying, coughing, hiccups, and burping occurring from birth to 2 months.

Canonical Babble

A stage of language development starting at 6 months, characterized by the emergence of consonant-vowel (CV) syllables.

Jargon

Babble that sounds like speech but lacks actual meaning, typically emerging around 10 months.

Significance of babble

Preferred sound sequences in babble are likely to appear in first words, and frequency of canonical babble correlates with expressive vocabulary.

2 types of babble

Reduplicated (e.g., 'duh-duh') and variegated (e.g., 'buh-doo-muh-doo').

Typical age for children to start using two-word utterances

Around 2 years old.

Age children begin to understand simple directions and high-frequency vocabulary

By 1.5 years.

Common speech and language disorders

Down syndrome, developmental/neurological differences, and acquired speech and language disorders.

Tools used to diagnose speech and language disorders

Diagnostic assessments, observations, play and language samples, and caregiver interviews.

Scope of pediatric speech-language pathology

Includes speech production, language comprehension and use, fluency, voice quality, and feeding/swallowing difficulties.

Types of support available for individuals with speech and language disorders

Special education, 504 plans, caregiver training, augmentative and assistive devices (AAC), outpatient services, and referrals.

Significance of public speaking for individuals with disabilities

It provides opportunities for advocacy and sharing personal experiences, as demonstrated by Brian Heffernan's public speaking engagements.

Challenges individuals with Down syndrome face in education

They may have low muscle tone and take longer to learn, requiring early intervention and support.

Early intervention for Brian Heffernan's development

It provided support through therapists and teachers, helping him to develop skills and confidence.

What was a significant challenge Brian faced in middle school?

He had to prove himself to teachers and faced bullying, but was supported by friends from elementary school.

What is the importance of community and social life for individuals with disabilities?

It fosters inclusion, support, and personal growth, as seen in Brian's involvement in church and youth groups.

What advocacy work has Brian Heffernan engaged in?

He has advocated for people with disabilities and the homeless, including lobbying for disability bills.

What is the 'falling off the cliff' phenomenon in disability services?

It refers to the gap in services available to individuals with disabilities as they transition from childhood to adulthood.

What is the definition of developmental disabilities?

An umbrella term that includes intellectual disabilities and other disabilities affecting a person's ability to independently complete major life activities, beginning during the developmental period before age 22.

What are some types of developmental disabilities?

Intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down syndrome, and expressive language disorder.

What is required for a diagnosis of intellectual disability?

Diagnosis must occur before age 18 with an IQ score of less than 70.

What major life activities are affected by intellectual disabilities?

Self-care, learning, communication, mobility, self-direction, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.

What are the common causes of intellectual disabilities?

Over 350 causes exist, with approximately 35% having a genetic cause, another third due to external trauma or toxins, and the etiology unknown for the remaining third.

What is Down syndrome and its common characteristics?

A chromosomal condition characterized by low muscle tone, small stature, and upward slant to the eyes, most commonly caused by Trisomy 21.

What is the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome today?

Life expectancy has increased from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years currently.

What is Fragile X syndrome?

The most common inherited cause of intellectual disability, caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, leading to social anxiety, learning disabilities, and physical traits like large ears.

What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?

A range of effects from prenatal alcohol exposure, including intellectual disabilities and growth deficiencies, with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome being the most severe form.

What is Phenylketonuria (PKU)?

A genetically inherited metabolic disorder where a child lacks an enzyme to break down phenylalanine, leading to severe intellectual disabilities, which is now virtually eliminated in the US through screening.

What is Klinefelter Syndrome?

A chromosomal condition affecting males, characterized by at least one extra X chromosome, leading to mild intellectual disabilities and physical traits like sterility and tall height.

What is Prader-Willi syndrome?

A genetic condition causing life-threatening obesity in children, characterized by chronic hunger and low muscle tone due to a deletion on chromosome 15.

What role does a strong support system play for individuals with disabilities?

A strong support system is crucial for helping individuals navigate challenges, advocate for themselves, and build resilience against bullying.

How can technology impact support systems for individuals with disabilities?

Technology can introduce anonymity online, leading to potential risks such as scamming, especially for individuals with disabilities who may struggle with self-monitoring.

What is the significance of early intervention therapies?

Early interventions, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, are critical in the first years of life for improving outcomes in children with disabilities.

What is the impact of bullying on children with disabilities?

Bullying can lead to significant emotional and physical harm, but supportive friends and allies can help mitigate these effects.

What is the importance of inclusion in education for children with disabilities?

Inclusion ensures that children with disabilities receive necessary services and are treated equitably, promoting social integration and academic success.

What are the challenges faced by families of children with disabilities?

Families often face difficulties in finding appropriate educational services, navigating laws, and advocating for their children's rights and needs.

What is the role of advocacy in the context of disabilities?

Advocacy involves lobbying for laws and policies that support the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in society.

What are some common characteristics of individuals with Fragile X syndrome?

Social anxiety, speech delays, aggressive behaviors, and learning disabilities are common, with symptoms often becoming more pronounced with age.

What is the relationship between Down syndrome and maternal age?

80% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under the age of 35.

What are the common physical traits of individuals with Klinefelter Syndrome?

Common traits include sterility, underdevelopment of male sex organs, and abnormal body proportions.

What is the significance of the year 1990-1993 for individuals with disabilities?

This period saw significant challenges and changes in laws affecting individuals with disabilities, impacting their access to education and services.

What are the three main deficits in social communication and interaction for autism spectrum disorder?

Deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, non-verbal communicative behaviors, and developing/maintaining relationships.

What does 'deficits in social-emotional reciprocity' entail?

It includes abnormal social approaches, failure of normal back-and-forth conversation, reduced sharing of interests and emotions, and lack of initiation of social interaction.

What are the characteristics of deficits in non-verbal communicative behaviors?

These include poorly integrated verbal and nonverbal communication, abnormalities in eye contact and body language, and deficits in understanding and using nonverbal communication.

What does a total lack of facial expressions or gestures indicate in social communication deficits?

It indicates a significant impairment in non-verbal communicative behaviors.

What does 'deficits in developing and maintaining relationships' refer to?

It refers to difficulties in adjusting behavior to suit different social contexts, sharing imaginative play, making friends, and a lack of interest in people.

What is required for a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder regarding social communication deficits?

The presence of three out of three specified symptoms related to social communication and interaction.

What are the four symptoms associated with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior in ASD?

1. Stereotyped or repetitive speech/movements; 2. Excessive adherence to routines; 3. Highly restricted interests; 4. Hyper or hypo reactivity to sensory input.

What does symptom B1 of ASD refer to?

Stereotyped or repetitive speech, motor movements, or use of objects.

What is symptom B2 in ASD?

Excessive adherence to routines or ritualized patterns of behavior.

What does symptom B3 of ASD involve?

Highly restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity or focus.

Describe symptom B4 of ASD.

Hyper or hypo reactivity to sensory input or unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment.

When must symptoms of ASD be present?

Symptoms must be present in early childhood but may not fully manifest until social demands exceed limited capacities.

What impact do ASD symptoms have on daily life?

Symptoms together limit and impair everyday functioning.

What are common characteristics of children with ASD?

Preference for solitary play, predictable play, delayed speech development, challenges with eye contact, and difficulty expressing needs.

What is echolalia in the context of ASD?

Echolalia is the repetition of phrases or sounds, which can be immediate or delayed.

What percentage of verbal individuals with autism exhibit echolalia?

Up to 75%.

What are early signs of ASD?

Lack of eye contact, lack of joint attention, lack of reciprocal conversation, atypical sensory processing.

What is the median age for an ASD diagnosis?

The median ages for diagnosis are between 4 to 5.7 years.

What factors contribute to the perceived 'autism epidemic'?

Broader diagnostic criteria, greater awareness, improved practices, and misinterpretation of data.

What are the physical growth averages for children in middle childhood?

Growth averages 2-3 inches per year and weight gain averages 5-8 pounds per year.

What significant brain changes occur during middle childhood?

Brain volume stabilizes, increases in cortical thickness, and significant changes in structures, especially in the prefrontal cortex.

What is the impact of exercise on children's health during middle childhood?

Higher levels of physical activity are linked to improved cardiovascular health, bone and muscle strength, and cognitive benefits.

What are the cognitive changes associated with Piaget's concrete operational stage?

Children can perform concrete operations, reason logically, and classify objects.

What is metacognition?

Cognition about cognition; awareness of one's own thought processes.

What is the significance of executive function in middle childhood?

It includes self-control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, which improve with age.

What is the difference between fixed and growth mindset?

A fixed mindset believes abilities are static, while a growth mindset believes abilities can be developed through effort.

What are the types of intelligence in Sternberg's triarchic theory?

Analytical, creative, and applied intelligence.

What is the whole-language approach to reading instruction?

Reading instruction should parallel children's natural language learning.

What is the phonics approach to reading instruction?

Teaches basic rules for translating written symbols into sounds.

What is the role of peer relationships in middle childhood?

Peer relationships provide companionship, stimulation, and affection, becoming increasingly important.

What are the characteristics of moral development in middle childhood according to Piaget?

Children begin to understand that rules are created by people and can be changed through group agreement.

What is the impact of parental incarceration on children?

It can lead to psychological or behavioral problems, such as anxiety and antisocial behavior.

What are the types of child maltreatment?

Physical abuse, child neglect, and sexual abuse.

What is the importance of prevention programs for child maltreatment?

They help mitigate the long-term effects of abuse and support resilience in children.

What is the significance of self-esteem in middle childhood?

Positive parent-child interactions and secure attachments predict a positive sense of self-esteem.

What role does body image play in children's self-esteem?

Body image dissatisfaction is correlated with poor self-esteem, depression, and unhealthy behaviors.

What are the common outcomes of bullying?

Depression and suicidal ideation are common outcomes for both victims and bullies.

What is the significance of siblings in a child's life during middle childhood?

Siblings provide social support and help manage academic and peer challenges.

What is the purpose of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973?

To promote the rehabilitation and integration of individuals with disabilities into society, ensuring access to employment, education, and public services.

What does Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibit?

Discrimination against individuals with disabilities in any program or activity.

What is the definition of a disability according to the Rehabilitation Act?

A person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

How does Section 504 impact educational settings?

It ensures that students with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations and services for equal access to education.

Who enforces the Rehabilitation Act of 1973?

Various federal agencies, including the Department of Education and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

What is the focus of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990?

Civil rights and anti-discrimination protections across all public and private settings.

What does the ADA require regarding accommodations?

It mandates reasonable accommodations in workplaces, public spaces, and education to ensure equal opportunity.

What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

A law providing federal financial assistance to ensure a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for children with disabilities.

What are the 13 disabilities defined under IDEA?

Autism, specific learning disability, developmental delay, emotional disturbance, intellectual disability, other health impairment, speech or language impairment, hearing impairment, deafness, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, traumatic brain injury, visual impairment including blindness.

What is the definition of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) according to IDEA?

A disorder in one or more basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, which may manifest in difficulties with listening, thinking, speaking, writing, spelling, or mathematical calculations.

What are some examples of Specific Learning Disabilities?

Dyslexia (reading disability), dysgraphia (writing difficulty), dyscalculia (math difficulty), auditory processing disorder, language processing disorder, non-verbal learning disabilities, visual perceptual deficit.

What is the prevalence of students receiving IDEA services from 2010-2022?

The number increased from 6.4 million to 7.3 million, representing 13-15% of total public school enrollment.

What cognitive challenges do students with learning disabilities often face?

Lower levels of background knowledge, ineffective use of strategies to remember information, and failure to engage in self-regulation of mental activity.