Diagnosis of a speech disorder
Often parents notice already in early childhood that something is wrong. Here it often becomes noticeable already at the age of six to twelve months that the children either fall silent or have concentration problems. Motor errors or lack of eye contact can also be the first signs of a language development disorder.
However, the actual diagnosis is more difficult because language development is very individual. It is normal for a child to learn to speak faster than a peer. The diagnosis of a language disorder is attempted by means of certain tests.
These are done in a playful way. For example, pictures have to be described or spoken instructions have to be carried out. As a rule, pediatricians or ear, nose and throat specialists can easily diagnose whether a speech developmental disorder is present.
Accompanying symptoms of a speech disorder
The accompanying symptoms are mainly psychological in nature. Often these symptoms are even perceived as more stressful than the speech disorder itself. The accompanying symptoms include, for example, a reduced self-esteem.
The children see themselves in comparison to their friends and peers and realize that their language is not “normal”. This can lead to self-doubt and a devaluation of their own person. In addition, a fear of speaking often occurs.
Situations where speech could be used are also avoided. This is due to the negative experiences the child has had with speaking. If the child has been made fun of or criticized for his or her speech, an avoidance and fearful behavior is typical. While speaking, some physical symptoms may occur which are related to stress. For example, physical tension, increased blinking, trembling or blushing can occur frequently.
Therapy of speech disorders in children
The treatment of speech disorders in children should be started as early as possible. If it becomes apparent in early childhood that the child has a speech development disorder, a specialist should be consulted. This specialist can determine the problems in a thorough examination and then treat them in a targeted manner.If the speech disorder is due to a hearing disorder, it can often be examined and eliminated by an ear, nose and throat doctor.
However, it is necessary to check for a hearing disorder, as the child cannot communicate it himself. If the speech disorder has a psychological cause, it may help to get the child out of fear. By creating a calming environment and speaking repeatedly without negative feedback, it is ensured that the child “learns” the trained fear.
If the speech disorder has motoric reasons, the muscles can be strengthened by specific exercises. A speech therapist can help here. Vocabulary and speech flow are also encouraged by the speech therapist in a playful way.
Malformations in the architecture of the teeth and jaws may have to be corrected by a dentist or oral surgeon. Overall, it is also helpful to talk slowly with the child and to speak clearly. Looking at picture books and naming objects together also promotes the child’s language development.
The duration of speech disorders is difficult to generalize. Certain speech disorders are normal in childhood during the phase of language learning. These disorders usually disappear by the age of six.
If the speech disorder lasts longer and the child is under treatment by a speech therapist, the speech disorder can be corrected. The period of time during which this happens depends very much on the type of speech disorder and the progress of the child. However, a speech disorder can sometimes be treated for years until the speech formation is correct.
If the speech disorder has its cause in hearing, the speech disorder can often be corrected within a short period of time with the therapy of the hearing aid. In summary, it can be said that speech disorders in children are easily treatable and often disappear on their own or through a relaxed environment.
