Speaking, listening, and communicating are essential for school and social life, but many kids struggle to master these skills. For kids with challenges such as speech and language impairments, communication can be particularly difficult. Of the more than six million kids age 3–21 with special needs in the U.S. public education system, over one-fifth received services for speech or language disorders (U.S. Department of Education, 2011). Here, we provide suggestions for identifying and addressing kids' challenges with communication. We also offer tips for finding effective apps and a list of related resources.

Learn more

• Communication Matrix: an easy-to-use initial assessment tool for people of all ages
• Communication Development in Children with Language Delays: a range of tools, including a list of signs to help identify a language delay, as well as articles to help parents and teachers better understand kids' communication needs
• The ABCs of Child Development: Developmental Milestones for Your Child's First Five Years: a map to help you follow kids' developmental milestones from birth to age 5. The section on communication skills provides helpful insight into language development for young kids

Our sources

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• The Center for Parent Information and Resources
• National Institute on Deafness and Communication Disorders

Experts consulted

• Melinda Techler, speech language pathologist and reading specialist
• Ali Steers, speech and language pathologist, Chime Charter School, Woodland Hills, Calif.