Different types of Speech, Language and Communication Impairments

Children with speech, language and communication impairments are a heterogeneous group. This means that many present with different profiles and areas of strengths and needs. Speech, language and communication impairments include a variety of conditions that interfere with communication.

Many of these disabilities are relatively rare or subtle in appearance, and the individual’s lack of any visible abnormalities may further disguise speech and language impairments. Speech, language and communication impairments can affect one's ability to talk, understand, read, and write.

Such disorders have different causes, and may range from a few speech sound errors or repetitions of sounds or words to a total loss of the ability to use speech to communicate effectively.

Speech and language impairments may occur separately, or the individual may demonstrate both types of impairments. This distinction is usually not easy to make. Difficulties with both speech and language can impact adversely on overall communication.