A Common Developmental Condition
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is one of the most common developmental conditions some people may have never heard of. In fact, it affects around 1 in 14 people, meaning there are likely to be two children with DLD in every classroom. Despite being more common than autism, awareness of DLD remains low but this is changing.
DLD is a hidden disability that affects a person's ability to understand and use language. Children and young people with DLD may find it difficult to understand what others are saying, follow instructions, find the right words, or express their thoughts clearly. These difficulties are not caused by a hearing loss, learning disability, or another known medical condition.
Every year, people across the whole word run activities for DLD awareness day. The theme for this year’s (16th October) DLD Awareness Day 2026 is "Together for DLD", highlighting the importance of working together to increase understanding and support for individuals living with DLD.
What are the signs of DLD?
Children and young people with DLD may:
- Have difficulty understanding spoken language.
- Struggle to find the right words when speaking.
- Use vague language such as "thing" or "stuff".
- Have a limited vocabulary.
- Experience difficulties with grammar and sentence structure.
- Find reading, writing and literacy challenging.
- Struggle to retell events or tell stories clearly.
- Have difficulties with social communication and friendships.
Because DLD is often invisible, it can sometimes be misunderstood as poor listening, inattentiveness, or behavioural difficulties.
What impact can DLD have?
Language is central to learning, so DLD can affect many aspects of a child's life. Without appropriate support, children and young people with DLD are at greater risk of academic difficulties, low self-esteem, social isolation, anxiety, and mental health challenges.
However, with early identification and the right support, children with DLD can thrive socially and academically.
How can Speech and Language Therapists help?
Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) play a key role in assessing, diagnosing and supporting children with DLD. They work closely with families and schools to develop language skills and provide practical strategies that reduce the impact of language difficulties on everyday communication and learning.
Supporting pupils in the classroom
Simple strategies can make a significant difference, including:
- Explicitly teaching new vocabulary.
- Pre-teaching key words before lessons.
- Using visual supports such as word maps and diagrams.
- Giving clear, concise instructions.
- Providing repetition and multiple examples.
- Creating opportunities to practise and use new language.
By raising awareness and understanding of DLD, we can help ensure that children and young people receive the support they need to succeed.
Together for DLD, let's make the invisible visible.
Find Out More
RADLD (Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder)
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