Understanding and using spoken language

Understanding spoken language can sometimes be referred to as ‘receptive language’ or ‘comprehension’ of language. In simple terms, this is ‘understanding what words mean’. Children develop their understanding of the meaning of words by hearing the word used at the same time as they experience it e.g. by touching, feeling or seeing an object, action, concept or feeling/emotion.

Using spoken language can sometimes be referred to as ‘expressive language’. This is the use of spoken words to name an object, concept, action or feeling/emotion. It also refers to the way that we put words together to form a sentence and the grammar we use which affects meaning e.g. tense markings, use of plurals etc.

Children can also develop their understanding and use of language without spoken words through a range of different communication systems such as sign language, use of symbols/pictures and through electronic devices. Read more about alternative communication systems here >

It is important to remember that children develop their use and understanding of language at different ages and stages in life. Read more information about ‘typical’ language development here >

There is also growing awareness in the world of speech and language therapy that suggests some children may be processing and developing their language in a different way. Rather than starting with single words and building up to phrases and sentences, some children will start their language development by storing and using whole phrases or single words that they have picked up from their surroundings (either from adults, other children or media such as songs or video clips they have heard). This process of developing language is known as ‘Gestalt Language Processing’ or ‘GLP’.

‘Gestalt Language Processing’ is just a different way that some children develop language. Developing language as a GLP or through more traditional methods are both effective ways of children learning language. Many children will pass through the different stages of language development naturally without needing support. However, some children, whether they are developing language as a GLP or a through a more traditional framework, can get stuck at a certain point in their development. It is these children that may need additional help, from those around them, to help them move forward with their language development.

The following resources can support children and young people with developing their use and understanding of language through the traditional language development

framework. Some of the videos may feature younger children or children with differing needs and diagnoses but the ideas and advice in them can be used to support children of all ages and abilities.

Read more information about supporting children who may be developing their language as a Gestalt Language Processor here. [link to new GLP page below]