Language
A language delay is when a child is not able to use words or understand other forms of communication at their expected age. This can come in two forms:
Expressive delays - where there may be difficulty putting words together to form meaning.
Receptive delays - where there is difficulty understanding what is heard or read.
Receptive Language Delay
Children can understand language before they are able to communicate with words. Receptive language development refers to your child’s ability to understand words (vocabulary). A delay or difficulty in comprehension/understanding can often lead to difficulty following directions and instructions and may lead to learning or behaviour problems.
Common symptoms of a receptive language delay
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Slow language development.
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Little interest when people are speaking at home or school.
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Trouble following directions, especially when directions are orally given.
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Often misunderstanding what was asked or said.
For example, if you say, “Where is the dog going?” they may respond with “The dog is barking.” or “The dog is brown.” -
Having a limited vocabulary and trouble learning new words.
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The ability to hear or see words but have trouble understanding their meaning.
If you are concerned that your child may have difficulties understanding what others say, an assessment by an Onyx practitioner is strongly recommended.
Expressive Language Delay
Expressive language refers to the ability to communicate in words, sentences and/or gestures in conversation, using appropriate vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. Expressive language problems may impact your child’s ability to express him/herself in an organized, coherent and meaningful way, and can significantly interfere with academic and social success. If you are concerned that your child may have an expressive language disorder or delay, an assessment by a Speech-Language Pathologist is strongly recommended.
Common symptoms of an expressive language delay
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Not babbling by the age of 12 months
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Not talking by the age of 18 months
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An inability to speak in short sentences by the age of 3 years
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Difficulty following directions
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Difficulty putting words together in a sentence
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Leaving words out of a sentence
Your child may have an expressive language disorder or delay if they:
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use fewer words than their peers.
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use inappropriate words in context.
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have difficulty conveying information.
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display problems with both oral and written expression.
If you are concerned that your child may have difficulties understanding what others say, an assessment by an Onyx practitioner is strongly recommended.
Literacy Skills
Learning how to read and write is crucial to academic success. We can help your child build their literacy skills. Your child will build their knowledge of sounds and letters, improve decoding and reading comprehension, as well as writing and spelling skills to become a more fluent and confident student. Whether your child is preschool age or in high-school, literacy support is available. If you are concerned that your child may have difficulties with reading comprehension, decoding, writing, spelling, or other literacy skills, an assessment by an Onyx practitioner is strongly recommended.
During our initial consultation, we will assess your child's language development and identify any areas of concern. From there, we will work with you and your child to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs and goals. Our approach is evidence-based and culturally responsive, considering your child's language and cultural background.
Family-centered approach
We understand the importance of family involvement in a child's language development. Our team is committed to building strong relationships with our clients and their families, to work alongside you in reaching their goals.​
If you suspect your child has a language delay, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team. Let us help your child communicate with clarity and confidence, while providing a safe and inclusive space where they can thrive.
We understand
Language delays can be a source of frustration and anxiety for both children and parents. Children may struggle to express themselves or understand others, which can impact their academic, social, and emotional development. Parents may feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to support their child's language development. That's where we come in.
Our team of experienced speech pathologists is dedicated to helping children overcome their language delays and reach their full potential. We use evidence-based therapies and techniques to address a range of language difficulties, including expressive and receptive language delays, grammar and syntax issues, and social communication challenges.
