My child is classified as “Communication Impaired” or CI in New Jersey. What does that mean?
If your child has recently been classified as “Communication Impaired” (CI) in their New Jersey school, you may be feeling a mix of emotions: relief that your child’s needs are being recognized, but also confusion about what this label really means.
At NRC Therapy Services, we help families in Monmouth County and Ocean County, NJ navigate the special education system. Here’s what parents need to know about the CI classification and what it means for your child.
What Does “Communication Impaired” Mean?
In New Jersey, a child may be classified as Communication Impaired (CI) if they have a language disorder that significantly affects their ability to:
Understand language (receptive language)
Use language to communicate (expressive language)
Use grammar and vocabulary appropriately
Participate in classroom learning and interactions
This classification is based on NJ Administrative Code (N.J.A.C. 6A:14), which governs special education eligibility.
How Is a Child Identified as CI?
To qualify as Communication Impaired:
Your child must be at least 5 years old and eligible for special education (Kindergarten or entering K)
The Child Study Team (CST) and a Speech-Language Specialist evaluate your child’s language skills.
The team must show that the language disorder is not primarily due to hearing loss, emotional challenges, or other disabilities.
What Services Might My Child Receive?
If your child is classified as CI, they will have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that includes goals and services to support communication. These may include:
Speech-language therapy (individual or group)
Classroom supports (visual aids, simplified directions, pre-teaching vocabulary)
Collaboration between teachers and speech-language pathologists
Assistive technology or AAC if needed
What This Classification Does Not Mean
It does not define your child’s intelligence or potential.
It does not mean your child will always struggle with communication. Many children make tremendous progress with support.
It does not replace a medical diagnosis. This is an educational classification only, used for school services.
Why This Matters for Parents in Monmouth & Ocean County
The CI classification opens the door to important supports in school. But it’s also important to remember that:
School-based therapy is tied to educational impact (how language affects learning).
Some children may benefit from additional private speech therapy to target skills beyond the classroom — such as social communication, feeding, literacy, or executive functioning.
How NRC Therapy Services Can Help
At NRC Therapy Services, we work with families across Belmar, Wall, Manasquan, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, Brick, Toms River, and surrounding Monmouth & Ocean County towns to:
Review IEPs and goals
Provide private speech, language, literacy, myofunctional, and feeding therapy
Offer independent evaluations (including AAC assessments)
Help parents understand NJ special education classifications and advocate for their child
Final Thoughts
Hearing that your child is classified as “Communication Impaired” may feel overwhelming at first. But remember — this classification is a pathway to support, not a limitation. With the right services, guidance, and advocacy, your child can thrive in school and beyond.
👉 Contact NRC Therapy Services today if you’d like help reviewing your child’s IEP, understanding the CI classification, or exploring private therapy options in Monmouth and Ocean County, NJ.