Processus

An oral language assessment generally involves games and structured activities guided by the speech-language pathologist. Depending on the child’s age, shyness, cooperation and level of participation, a full oral speech-language assessment will take one to three visits.

The speech-language pathologist will evaluate the child’s:

• Receptive language abilities (comprehending language)
• Expressive language abilities (producing language)

Comprehension

The speech-language pathologist will observe whether the child is able to understand the words, sentences, questions and instructions they hear. Sometimes, a child is so used to the routines at home and daycare that they may not appear to have comprehension problems. However, when the child is in an unfamiliar environment, problems may become apparent.

Production

The speech-language pathologist will assess the child’s ability to produce speech and check:

• Whether they convert sounds
• If they use full sentences
• If their vocabulary is developing appropriately
• The extent of their vocabulary (do they struggle to find the right word?)

Depending on the child’s needs, the speech-language pathologist will also evaluate the child’s voice, resonance, breathing, etc.

A video of the child will allow the speech-language pathologist to perform a more in-depth assessment of the child’s speech production.