Home / Services / Understanding & talking
Understanding & talkingLanguage therapy & developmental language disorder
Language is how children make sense of the world and share what's inside. We support little ones who are slow to start talking, and older children who find understanding or using language hard.
Language difficulties are common — and often invisible. With the right support, children can become stronger communicators at home, at kinder and at school.
When language is hard
Language has two sides: understanding (receptive) and using language (expressive). A “late talker” is a toddler who's slow to start using words. Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) affects around 1 in 14 children — a lifelong difference in learning and using language that isn't explained by another condition, and that responds well to support.
Signs you might notice
- Few or no words by around age two
- Hard to follow instructions or answer questions
- Short, jumbled or immature sentences
- Often “can't find” the word they want
- Struggles to retell an event or follow a story
- Frustration or behaviour that comes from not being understood
How we help
We assess your child's language strengths and gaps (using tools such as the CELF-5 and PLS-5) and build goals around real conversations and play. Crucially, we coach the adults around your child, so language grows in everyday moments — not just in a therapy session.
Approaches we draw on
We use evidence-based strategies including Hanen “It Takes Two to Talk” parent coaching, focused stimulation and modelling, interactive book reading, and visual frameworks like Colourful Semantics and SHAPE CODING for building sentences. For school-aged children we add vocabulary and narrative (storytelling) work.
Common questions
My child is a “late talker” — should I just wait and see?
Many late talkers catch up, but it's hard to predict who will. Because early support is gentle, low-risk and effective, a check-in is almost always worthwhile rather than waiting. If things are on track, that's wonderful reassurance.
What exactly is DLD?
Developmental Language Disorder is a common neurodevelopmental difference where understanding and/or using language is harder than expected, without another obvious cause. It affects learning, friendships and literacy — and it benefits hugely from targeted speech pathology.
Will therapy help my child at school?
Yes. Language underpins reading, writing, following instructions and friendships. We align goals with the classroom and collaborate with teachers so support carries across settings.
Explore related support
Let's help your child be heard
Send a referral in a couple of minutes — families and professionals are both welcome. We'll be in touch within 24–48 hours.