Speech and language skills form the foundation for reading and writing. Children with speech or language difficulties are at higher risk for literacy problems—but early support can make a significant difference. Phonological awareness (the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words) is one of the strongest predictors of reading success and is a key area where speech-language pathologists can help.
Spoken language provides the foundation for reading. Before children can connect letters to sounds (decoding), they need to be able to hear and distinguish the sounds in words. Before they can understand what they read (comprehension), they need vocabulary and language understanding.
Research consistently shows that children with speech and language difficulties are at higher risk for reading problems. About 50% of children identified with speech/language impairments in preschool will have reading difficulties. However, early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Phonological awareness is the ability to recognize and manipulate the sound structures of language—independent of meaning. It's a crucial skill for reading because it helps children understand that words are made up of sounds that can be mapped to letters.
Phonological awareness develops in a predictable sequence, from larger units (words, syllables) to smaller units (individual sounds/phonemes). Children typically develop these skills between ages 3-7.
Research has identified five essential components of reading instruction. Strong readers have skills in all five areas.
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulty with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and poor spelling. It results from a deficit in the phonological component of language and is neurobiological in origin.
Dyslexia is NOT related to intelligence—many people with dyslexia are highly intelligent. With appropriate instruction (systematic, explicit phonics-based approaches), most people with dyslexia can learn to read successfully, though it may require more time and effort.
The goal is to create lifelong readers. Let children choose books they're interested in, read in cozy spots, use silly voices, and never use reading as punishment. Joy leads to motivation leads to practice leads to improvement.
Don't stop reading aloud when children can read independently. Reading aloud builds vocabulary, models fluent reading, and exposes children to texts above their reading level. It's also quality bonding time.
Speech-language pathologists are experts in the language foundations of literacy. If your child has speech/language difficulties, ask about phonological awareness assessment and intervention as part of their therapy.
Language is the foundation for communication, learning, and social connection. It includes both understanding others (receptive language) and expressing yourself (expressive language). The first three years of life are the most critical period for language development when the brain is optimally wired to absorb language. Strong language skills are essential for reading, writing, academic success, and building relationships throughout life.
Learn moreBooks are powerful tools for supporting speech and language development. This page includes two types of recommendations: parent guidebooks for learning how to support your child's communication, and children's books that are particularly good for speech-language practice due to their repetition, rhyme, vocabulary, or subject matter.
Learn moreResearch consistently shows that home practice significantly improves therapy outcomes. Children who practice at home make faster progress than those who rely on therapy sessions alone. The key is short, frequent, FUN practice sessions—5-10 minutes daily is more effective than 30 minutes once a week. Make practice a positive routine, not a chore.
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