Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment Options

Written By Janene Besch

If you’ve read about the signs and symptoms of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), you may now be wondering what the next step is if you have concerns about your child.

In this section, we’ll explain how DLD is diagnosed, what a comprehensive speech-language evaluation looks like, and how speech therapy and other supports can help children improve their communication, reading, and writing skills.

This is Part 2 of our guide on Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). If you haven’t read Part 1, you can start there to learn the signs and communication challenges first.

When Should I Seek an Evaluation if I Have Concerns About My Child's Language Development?

If your child has persistent difficulties with language, reading, or writing—or if you've noticed any of the signs described in Part 1—it may be time to schedule a speech and language evaluation. You can also explore our other blog posts to learn more about speech and language milestones by age, developmental expectations, and other topics that can help you better understand your child's communication skills:

Sometimes teachers notice concerns first, but parents often recognize that something doesn't seem quite right. Trust your instincts, you know your child best. An evaluation can identify your child's strengths and areas of need while providing recommendations to support their communication and learning.

How Is Developmental Language Disorder Diagnosed?

If you have concerns about your child's language development, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can complete a comprehensive language evaluation.

A DLD evaluation typically includes:

  • A parent interview to discuss your concerns and your child's developmental history

  • Review of medical, educational, and developmental information

  • Observation of your child's communication skills

  • Informal language assessments, such as collecting a language sample during conversation or play

  • Standardized language testing to evaluate:

    • Receptive language (understanding language)

    • Expressive language (using language)

    • Vocabulary development

    • Grammar and sentence structure

    • Storytelling and narrative skills

Your child's SLP will also consider and rule out other possible factors that could affect language development, such as hearing loss or other developmental conditions. This comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether your child's language difficulties are consistent with Developmental Language Disorder and guides the development of an individualized treatment plan.

The earlier DLD is identified, the sooner children can begin receiving the support they need to strengthen their communication, literacy, and learning skills.

You should consider seeking out an evaluation if you notice the above signs or symptoms listed. Your child’s teacher may raise concerns they are noticing in the classroom. Also, you as the parent know your child best! If ou notice something is more challenging for your child, like persistent language difficulties or ongoing reading and writing difficulties, an evaluation can help.

What Does Support Look Like for Children with DLD?

Every child with DLD is unique, so treatment is individualized. Support may include:

  • Speech-language therapy to improve vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, and storytelling

  • Literacy-based intervention to strengthen reading, writing, and phonological awareness

  • Classroom accommodations such as visual supports, extra processing time, and explicit instruction

  • Collaboration between families, teachers, and therapists

Parents can also support language development by reading together, having conversations throughout the day, and practicing strategies recommended by their speech-language pathologist.

Early Intervention Makes a Difference

Research shows that early identification and intervention lead to better language, literacy, academic, and social outcomes for children with DLD.

Although DLD is a lifelong condition, children can make tremendous progress with the right support. The earlier intervention begins, the more opportunities children have to build the communication skills they need to succeed at school, at home, and with friends.

We're Here to Help

If you're concerned about your child's language development, we're here to help. Our speech-language pathologists provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized therapy to help children with Developmental Language Disorder build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and thrive.

Questions about your child’s speech, language, or reading development? Reach out to schedule a free phone consultation or speech-language evaluation. We’re here to support your family every step of the way!

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Janene Besch
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Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): Signs, Symptoms, and How It Affects Communication