When children have difficulty understanding language, expressing their thoughts, or keeping up with schoolwork, it can affect both communication and learning. Strengthening language skills can make a meaningful difference across home and school.

What are language and literacy difficulties?

Language skills help children understand and use words to communicate, learn, and connect with others.

• Receptive language = understanding what others say

• Expressive language = using words to share thoughts, needs, and ideas

Strong language skills are the foundation for reading, writing, and academic success.

Some children may have a Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), which affects how they learn, understand, and use language.

Signs your child may need speech therapy

• Difficulty following directions

• Trouble understanding questions or stories

• Limited vocabulary or trouble learning new words

• Difficulty forming complete sentences

• Trouble finding the right words

• Difficulty telling stories or staying on topic

• Challenges with sequencing or retelling events

• Difficulty remembering information or details

Language and literacy challenges may include

• Delayed language development

• Difficulty learning letter sounds or early reading skills

• Trouble expressing ideas clearly or organizing thoughts

• Disorganized storytelling

• Frequent grammar errors

• Difficulty answering “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” and “why” questions

What speech therapy looks like

• Building vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure

• Strengthening listening and comprehension skills

• Improving storytelling and conversational skills

• Supporting early reading and literacy development

• Practicing organization of thoughts for speaking and writing

• Helping with confidence in school and communication

When to reach out

• Difficulty understanding or using language

• Struggles with reading, writing, or storytelling

• Concerns from teachers about communication or academics

• You feel your child is falling behind peers

👉 Early support can make a big difference in communication and learning.

Serving families in Portland, Oregon

Speech therapy services for children and teens in Portland and surrounding areas.