What is Specific Language Impairment (SLI)?
Specific Language Impairment (SLI) is a developmental disorder that affects the acquisition and use of language without an apparent cause, such as intellectual disability, neurological disorders, hearing problems, or lack of stimulation.
Children with SLI have significant difficulties in understanding, processing, or producing language, even though their intelligence and cognitive development in other areas are typical.
SLI often impacts reading skills, so if it is not addressed early, it may affect academic performance.
SLI can also influence social interactions and school achievement, making early detection and treatment essential.
Early intervention is critical to improve language development, prevent communication difficulties, and help children reach their full potential in all areas of life.
Main Characteristics of SLI
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Delayed speech and language: Children usually begin speaking later than their peers and may have a limited vocabulary.
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Comprehension difficulties: Problems understanding spoken language, especially in complex situations.
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Grammar issues: Frequent errors in sentence construction, omission of words, or incorrect use of verb tenses.
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Difficulty learning new words: Trouble expanding vocabulary or recalling words.
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Expressive language problems: Challenges forming coherent and clear sentences.
Types of SLI
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Expressive disorder: Main difficulties are in producing spoken language.
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Receptive disorder: Problems mainly with understanding language.
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Mixed disorder: Affects both comprehension and production of language.
Speech and Language Therapy for SLI
Treatment usually involves speech and language therapy, which helps individuals who have trouble speaking, articulating sounds, using language effectively, or presenting speech flow disorders such as stuttering.
Our specialist speech-language pathologists in Marbella help children and adults with SLI improve their language skills, providing tools and support for both patients and families to achieve a fulfilling life without limitations due to SLI.
📞 If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have SLI affecting daily life, contact us for an SLI evaluation and specialized language therapy: +34 672 115 083 / 951 765 549