There are several types of language disorders. Some children merely show problems with articulation, but understand language, have intact vocabulary, and can use functional sentences. However, they struggle manipulating oral muscles necessary for proper articulation and enunciation of sounds and words. This is commonly referred to as verbal apraxia. Speech therapy focusing on articulation can promote very promising results.
Other language disorders involve a child’s ability to understand and/or comprehend language, as well as speak in functional sentences. This is usually event in young children who struggle to meet developmental language milestones. Children with language disorders generally struggle to express their ideas, needs, and wants effectively and efficiently. Additionally, they may struggle understanding what others are asking of them, and following multistep and complex instruction. Given these challenges, these children can be more prone to frustration and emotional outbursts. In some cases, children struggle socially due to their limited functional and social communication skills. If a child has no evidence of any other cognitive impairment, children with language disorders often catch up to their peers with appropriate support (e.g., speech/language therapy). However, in many cases, language problems are associated with other cognitive impairments such as autism, learning disorders, or reduced intellectual functioning (e.g., mental retardation). Nonetheless, with age and intervention, these children too very often improve, though they may show more challenges compared to their same age peers.