Communication Disorders: Neurodevelopmental Considerations

Communication disorders are a common neurodevelopmental disorder. Difficulties are evident with structural language, phonology, and pragmatics. Each area is differentiated within current diagnostic approaches. However, difficulties within the language system often co-occur. The assessment of communication difficulties requires professionals to profile linguistic skills rather than rely on single diagnostic measures. Social communication disorders raise particular challenges in their assessment and their differentiation with other neurodevelopmental disorders. Communication disorders also co-occur, with problems in literacy and behavior highlighting the importance of multiprofessional approaches to assessment and intervention. There is an increasing evidence base for effective interventions that professionals can access to support children’s communication difficulties.