Atypical speech and language development: a consensus study on clinical signs in the Netherlands.

Authors Margot I. Visser-Bochane, Ellen Gerrits, Cees P. van der Schans, Sijmen A. Reijneveld, Margreet R. Luinge (kan eruit)
Published in International Journal of Language and Communication Disorders
Publication date 2017
Research groups Speech and Language Therapy: Participation through communication
Type Article

Summary

Background Atypical speech and language development is one of the most common developmental difficulties in young children. However, which clinical signs characterize atypical speech–language development at what age is not clear. Aim To achieve a national and valid consensus on clinical signs and red flags (i.e. most urgent clinical signs) for atypical speech–language development in children from 1 to 6 years of age. Methods & Procedures A two‐round Delphi study in the Netherlands with a national expert panel (n = 24) of speech and language therapists was conducted. The panel members responded to web‐based questionnaires addressing clinical signs. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% of the experts agreeing on an issue. Outcomes & Results The first round resulted in a list of 161 characteristics of atypical speech and language development. The second round led to agreement on 124 clinical signs and 34 red flags. Conclusions & Implications Dutch national consensus concerns 17–23 clinical signs per age year for the description of an atypical speech–language development in young children and three to 10 characteristics per age year being red flags for atypical speech–language development. This consensus contributes to early identification and diagnosis of children with atypical speech–language development, awareness and research.

On this publication contributed

  • Ellen Gerrits | Professor | Research group Speech and Language Therapy: Participation through communication
    Ellen Gerrits
    • Professor
    • Research group: Speech and Language Therapy: Participation through communication

Language English
Published in International Journal of Language and Communication Disorders
Year and volume 52 1
Key words spraakontwikkeling, kinderen, Delphi-studie
Page range 10-20

Speech and Language Therapy: Participation through communication