With 11% of children ages 3–6 having a speech, language, voice, or swallowing disorder—and almost 15% of school-age children experiencing some degree of hearing loss—communication disorders are among the most common disabilities in children nationwide. During May, which is Better Hearing & Speech Month, audiologists and speech-language pathologists share information with families to learn normal speech and hearing development and any early warning of these disorders. https://identifythesigns.org/

Hearing loss is assessed and treated by audiologists.  School-based audiologists help with the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of balance, hearing, and auditory processing disorders.  Speech and language disorders are evaluated and treated by speech-language pathologists.  School-based speech-language pathologists can identify and treat disorders that include:  speech sounds, language, voice, and stuttering. 

Many untreated communication hearing and speech-language disorders can lead to problems with reading, writing, social interactions, and academic success.  It is important to talk to a professional if you have concerns.  Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are part of the school team that helps to gather information on an individual’s level of performance to access the curriculum and use effective communication across all situations. 

Edited and Abbreviated By: Regina Church-Hayes, M.S., CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist at Armstrong Elementary School

Reference: https://www.asha.org/bhsm/