Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day
DLD is an invisible disability that affects people’s ability to understand and/or use language. It’s a lifelong developmental disability that does not go away.
On average it affects 1 in 14 people - although they may never have been diagnosed. With the right support, children and young people with DLD can all achieve their potential and this year #DLDday takes place on Friday 18 October. The theme is: ‘Speak up for DLD’.
Katie Levy, Specialist Speech & Language Therapist said: “Our Community Speech and Language Therapy service works with children and young people with a diagnosis of DLD, their families, and schools, to help them understand what DLD is, how it can impact them, and what people can do to support someone who has DLD. We also want to raise awareness so parents and teachers can spot it more quickly, and children can access the support they need sooner.
“We really love making these videos each year with our young service users and sharing them on social media. They love having the chance to go on camera and use their voice to let people know about DLD and what it’s like for them. Having the opportunity to express your views, and being listened to is vital to everyone but especially to someone with DLD. We are so proud of everyone that took part in making the video, and we hope you can all take the time to watch it and learn more about DLD.”
DLDday is celebrated around the world, with more than 40 countries involved. Previous campaigns have raised awareness of a wide range of subjects from growing up with DLD, to teachers thinking more about language and also family dynamics.
You can also download this handy factsheet in a number of different languages and the BBC Website also has this very informative guide to DLD.
If you would like any more information please visit the Kaleidoscope website or contact our Children's SaLT team on: LH.childrensslt@nhs.net