Knowt
Recording-2025-03-05T19:00:53.894Z
Emerging Language Development (18-36 Months)
This period marks a significant increase in functional communication among children.
Children start to use more words and develop their communication skills progressively.
Importance of Assessment and Intervention
Assessment during this age is crucial to identify any language delays as children should show increased expressive language skills.
Early intervention is important, with programs often coordinated through regional centers.
Key Components of Assessment
Case History:
Collect background information including birth details and developmental milestones achieved.
Note any physical developmental milestones (e.g., crawling, walking) that may influence speech and language development.
Oral Mechanism Exam (OME):
Evaluate the structure and function of the oral cavity which may affect speech production.
Norm-Referenced Assessments:
Use standardized or criterion-referenced assessments to evaluate the child’s language abilities.
Focus on receptive language (comprehension), speech motor development, and other key language skills.
Areas of Focus During Assessment
Comprehension:
Assess the child’s understanding of language and commands.
Speech Motor Development:
Evaluate the physical ability to produce speech sounds.
Phonological Skills:
Analyze the child's ability to understand sound structures in language.
Semantic Skills:
Look at vocabulary size, frequency of word combinations, and unique expressions.
Syntax Skills:
Review how children form phrases and sentences, observing the shift from one-word to two- or three-word combinations.
Lexical Production
Evaluate the child’s vocabulary:
Investigate the range and size of vocabulary.
Measure how frequently the child uses word combinations and whether they are still relying on single words or gestures.
Semantic Relationships
Analyze the child's use of:
Possessives (e.g., “my toy”)
Attributes (descriptive words)
Actions and agents in sentences.
Next Steps
Engage in lab activities to consolidate understanding of language assessment for children aged 18-36 months.
Prepare for upcoming lessons and utilize breakout rooms for personalized help and discussions.
