Speech disorders have normally been diagnosed under generic definitions, with not much cause or explanation for why a child develops a more difficult time speaking.
Disabilities such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia have more public awareness, but when a child is rather diagnosed with a generic speech disorder, not much can be said about what the future consequences of it can be.
Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day is all about giving those who have a language disorder a voice, helping educate the public about this term and helping raise awareness about speech disorders in everyday life.
History of Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day
Back in September 2017, Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day or DLD Day for short was launched to initiate the new terminology that described previous speech disorders.
With the campaign ‘DLD 1-2-3’, it promoted awareness of these issues and helped spread knowledge about how common DLD can occur in children’s lives. Developmental Language Disorder is when a child or young adult has difficulty understanding language and speaking.
Historically, terms such as developmental aphasia, specific language impairment, and primary language difficulty have all been used as a diagnosis, but the term Developmental Language Disorder has been in development for many years.
Causes of DLD have been correlated with genetics, according to studies, and the belief that DLD is caused by the action of parents not speaking to their children has no support or evidence to back it up.
Difficulties such as lack of employment, difficulties with academic studies, and problems with mental health. In 2017, the holiday was founded to help popularize and give clear guidelines on how it should be used.
On this day, people learn about DLD and can sign up to become ambassadors for DLD if they have had personal or medical experience. People on this day also donate to the website organization and help spread awareness through social media.
How to Celebrate Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day
Give thanks to the speech and language therapists who work diligently to improve children’s speech abilities throughout their younger years. Spread awareness by printing out posters, handing out fact sheets, and spreading awareness of the term on social media.
Help donate to help support the campaign, sign up to become an ambassador and host an event at your local public school. If you know a child or someone who has had a speech disorder, inform them about this term and support them by showing acceptance and appreciation for them as people.
