What Is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)?

Sep 1

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a common communication disorder that impacts a child’s ability to learn, understand, or use language — both spoken and written — in a way that can't be explained by hearing loss, autism, or lack of exposure to language New Jersey Institute for Disabilities+15NIDCD+15DLDandMe+15. It affects approximately 1 in 14 children in kindergarten NIDCD+1 and continues to affect individuals across their lifespan.

Signs Parents Should Watch For

Children with DLD may experience a range of challenges, such as:

Struggling to follow instructions or answer questions
Difficulty learning new words or explaining ideas clearly
Trouble telling stories in sequence or organizing language
Challenges with reading, writing, attention, or math Learning Community Charter School+15The DLD Project+15NIDCD+15
Behavioral frustration or social withdrawal due to communication struggles

Because these difficulties often run under the radar, DLD is sometimes referred to as a “hidden condition”Wikipedia+7The DLD Project+7NIDCD+7 Cleveland Clinic+1.

What Causes DLD?

DLD is a neurodevelopmental disorder — thought to stem from subtle differences in brain development, likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors Verywell Health+11NIDCD+11Cleveland Clinic+11. It may also run in families, with studies indicating that 50–70% of children with DLD have a family member with similar language challenges NIDCD+1. Importantly, learning more than one language does not cause DLD NIDCD+1.

Why the Name "DLD" Matters

Historically, terms like “specific language impairment (SLI)” or “developmental dysphasia” were used. In 2017, experts endorsed the term Developmental Language Disorder to reduce confusion and ensure children receive the support they need under a consistent label Wikipedia+2NIDCD+2.

What Does DLD Mean for Schooling in NJ?

If DLD is impacting your child’s educational performance — such as listening comprehension, expression in writing, or social communication — school-based supports may be available. New Jersey's SLPs evaluate language across the five domains: phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, and pragmatics Special Education Alliance of New Jersey+7NJ.gov+7Express Yourself Therapy+7. If eligible, your child could receive supports such as:

An IEP (Individualized Education Program)
Speech-language therapy to target language goals
Classroom accommodations to support language access

Supporting Children with DLD in Monmouth & Ocean County, NJ

At NRC Therapy Services, we partner with families across Belmar, Manasquan, Wall, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, Brick, Toms River, and surrounding areas to:

Help parents understand how DLD affects language and learning
Provide comprehensive speech-language evaluations to identify needs
Review school IEPs and support goal development
Offer private therapy tailored to language, literacy, and executive function

Early identification and targeted support can significantly improve long-term outcomes in academics, social skills, and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Remember — DLD is not your child’s fault. It’s a common and manageable condition, not a reflection of intelligence or effort. With early, thoughtful intervention, children with DLD can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

If you have concerns about your child’s language development in Monmouth or Ocean County, contact NRC Therapy Services today. We’re here to help you understand the path forward and advocate for the supports your child deserves.

Nicolette Contella