Working with verbal language impairments is one of the most complex and challenging jobs of the Speech/Language Pathologist.  It can also be one of the most rewarding.

A simple way to understand language is to look at it as being divided into three divisions: Form is how language is expressed in the "grammar" of our language; Content is the part of language that deals with the meaning; Use is how we use language in functional or social ways to interact with our world.

Being able to understand and use language effectively is essential to our ability to learn and perform well in school and, later on, in our careers and life.

Language impairments are highly related to learning disabilities.  In fact, it is estimated that anywhere from 40%-60% of learning disabilities are language-based.  Some people even estimate this number to be higher.  Other types of disabilities can co-occur with language impairments, also.

In Nebraska, children who are referred for evaluation of their language abilities are seen by a Speech/Language Pathologist who administers tests and other informal assessments to determine whether language impairments exist that are interfering with the child's ability to communicate and learn effectively. 

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