A–Z Glossary

Speech-language pathologist

A professional who evaluates and treats speech, language, and communication problems.

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Search results for: Speech-language pathologist

When babies say first words by month

When babies say first words by month

What counts as a first word? A first word is usually a consistent vocalization that a baby uses intentionally to refer to a person, object, action, or social routine. It does not have to be pronounced clearly. For example, a baby who repeatedly says “ba” while reaching for a bottle may be using an early […]

First Gestures Before Spoken Words

First Gestures Before Spoken Words

Why Gestures Come Before Words Spoken language requires several capacities to coordinate: auditory perception, comprehension, symbolic representation, respiratory and vocal control, and precise oral-motor sequencing. Gestures draw heavily on visual attention, body movement, and social learning, so they may become meaningful before speech is physically and cognitively ready. A baby may understand a request or […]

Communication skills in children

Communication skills in children

What communication skills include in childhood In clinical terms, communication includes receptive language, expressive language, speech production, and pragmatics. Receptive language is what a child understands. Expressive language is what a child can say, sign, or otherwise convey. Pragmatics refers to the social use of language: taking turns, staying on topic, adjusting tone, and using […]