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As a pediatric speech pathologist, one of the most common questions I encounter from parents is, "What's the difference between speech and language?" While the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct aspects of communication.
Speech
How we say sounds and words. It involves the physical ability to articulate sounds, which includes the use of the mouth, lips, and tongue. Speech encompasses three main components:
Articulation: This is the clarity of speech sounds. It's about how we form sounds like "s" and "r," which can be challenging for young children.
Voice: This involves the use of vocal cords to produce sound, including pitch, volume, and quality.
Fluency: This refers to the rhythm and flow of speech, addressing issues like stuttering.
Language
The system we use to communicate meaning. It includes understanding and being understood through verbal, non-verbal, and written communication. Language has two main components:
Receptive Language: This is the ability to understand words, sentences, and meaning. It’s about how we comprehend instructions and stories.
Expressive Language: This involves the use of words, grammar, and syntax to express thoughts and ideas. It's how we use words to share our thoughts and experiences.
Understanding the distinction between speech and language is crucial when addressing communication challenges in children. A child might have a speech disorder if they struggle with pronouncing sounds correctly, but a language disorder if they have difficulty understanding or forming sentences.
It's essential to identify whether a child's difficulties lie in speech, language, or both. This allows for targeted interventions and support. As professionals, our goal is to help each child reach their full communication potential, using tailored strategies to address their specific needs.
If you think your child or someone in your care have challenges with these areas, please contact us for further information. We are here to help YOU.
