Speech-Language Pathologists' Role in Reading and Writing

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Speech-Language Pathologists' Role in Reading and Writing

Tip Sheet

news: facts:

Literacy is essential to success in our society. The ability to read and write

is highly valued and important for social and economic advancement. Literacy in

the United States is the ability to read, write and speak English at levels of

proficiency necessary to successfully function on the job and in society.

Language problems are a consequence of both reading and writing problems in

children and Adolescent. Individuals with reading and writing problems may

experience difficulties using language strategically to communicate.

Studies have shown that children with language impairments such as dyslexia are

four to five times more likely to have difficulties reading than normal

developing children.

Speech-language pathologists play an important role in the prevention of

literacy problems; their goal is to promote opportunities for success in spoken

and written language for children with and without communication disorders.

For more information on literacy or for a referral to an ASHA-certified speech

language speech pathologist, consumers may call ASHA' s HELPLINE at

1-800-638-TALK (8255)

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Suspect a Learning Disability?

Early Intervention is Important

Learning disabilities are a group of disorders caused by central nervous system

dysfunction. These disorders involve difficulty in developing and using

speaking, reading, writing, and reasoning skills- skills that are necessary for

academic success. A learning disability does not suddenly appear at ages 8,9, or

10 but is usually a continuation of specific language problems from childhood

even though it may not be identified until a child is older. Although skills may

improve over time with treatment and training, learning disabilities are

considered a lifelong problem. Parents concerned about their child's development

should contact a certified speech-language pathologist who can perform an

evaluation and suggest methods of treatment.

For additional information on learning disabilities or for referrals to

certified professionals, consumers may call ASHA's HELPLINE at1-800-638-TALK

(8255)

â– Communication disorders affect approximately 46 million Americans. Of these,

28 million have a hearing loss, 14 million have a speech or language disorder,

and 4 million have a balance disorder, or suffer from smell and taste disorders.

â– Audiologists are hearing health care professionals who specialize in

preventing, identifying and assessing hearing disorders as well as providing

audiologic treatment including hearing aids and other assistive listening

devices.

â– Speech-language pathologists are the professionals who identify, assess, and

treat speech and language problems including swallowing disorders.

â– ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing

association for more than 120,000 audiologists, speech-language pathologists and

speech, language, and hearing scientists.