Semantic Pragmatic Language Disorder

Come to the Communication Station…..

We will incorporate Semantic Pragmatic Language into your child’s session.

Semantics is the study of words and their meanings (vocabulary). Children change and sort out the meaning of words as they make associations about the environment around them. A young child may call their pet dog, Oliver, and then call all dogs Oliver. However, as the child is exposed to more pets and spoken language they will begin to understand how Oliver differs from the neighbors dog Mittens. As associations begin to be further understood, the child will begin to take words from his fund of knowledge, for example once a child understands that not all birds are ducks, they will start to see how different birds are classified, and that there are ducks, robins and seagulls. Semantic development therefore relies on a child’s ability to reason, understand, and subsequently make concepts about his world.
Pragmatics is the study of how language, both verbal and nonverbal, is used to interact with others in a social situation. This includes but is not limited to using eye contact, pointing, body language, turn taking and joint attention.

What types of children does Semantic Pragmatic Disorders affect?

Children with Autism, Aspergers, Developmental Delays, Down Syndrome, Children with Speech and Language Disorders

As your child’s speech develops, he or she builds on their communication skills and use words in a variety of ways. The SLP will provide a structured environment to provide your child with exposure to multiple ways to use language and communication in their world.

Parents will be educated about the structure of their child’s therapy session and what they can do in their home environment to promote the most optimal learning for their child to begin using language in terms of semantics and pragmatics.