Disorders in language development are characterized by noticeable difficulties processing and expressing language. Developmental disorders are different from acquired language disorders in that the individual has not yet developed the language skills one loses from an acquired disorder. For some reason, either organic or environmental, an individual does not develop language according to developmental acquisition guidelines.

Evaluation of language development includes assessment of both expressive and receptive language structure, content, use and intelligibility. A battery of formal and informal assessment measures are utilized along with individual and caregiver interviews to determine skill levels in these areas.

Typically a plan of care includes focusing on stimulating language development according to developmental guidelines. Treatment strategies include stimulating concepts including but not limited to the correct use of verb tense, pronouns, plurals, possessives, negatives, questions and prepositions.