Speech or Language ImpairmentsLearning Support :

Four types of speech or language impairments are generally recognized:

1) Fluency disorder means the intrusion or repetition of sounds, syllables, and words; prolongation's of sounds; avoidance of words; silent blocks; or inappropriate inhalation, exhalation, or phonation patterns. These patterns may also be accompanied by facial and body movements associated with the effort to speak; 2) Voice disorder means the absence of voice or presence of abnormal quality, pitch, resonance, loudness, or duration; 3) Articulation disorder means the absence of or incorrect production of speech sounds or phonological processes that are developmentally appropriate (e.g. lisp, difficulty articulating certain sounds, such as l or r); or 4) Language disorder means a breakdown in communication as characterized by problems in expressing needs, ideas, or information that may be accompanied by problems in understanding. For current Minnesota rule language regarding Speech or Language Impairments, click on MN Rule Chapter 3525.1343.

Specialist Contact: Mary McDevitt Kraljic, 651-582-8589, e-mail: Mary McDevitt Kraljic