As part of Better Hearing and Speech month, the University of Delaware Treatment Efficacy and Language Learning (TELL) Lab will host a lab outreach event on May 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newark Free Library (750 Library Ave. Newark, DE 19711). The lab will offer screenings of children’s hearing and language skills. Register in advance.

“School readiness doesn’t just mean having a new backpack and knowing where your bus stop is. It also means being ready to learn,” said postdoctoral researcher Maura Curran of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “Children with hearing loss or language disorder may struggle in the classroom, especially if they are not receiving the kind of support they need.”

Unfortunately, diagnosis may not occur during preschool years.

“This may lead to frustration,” Curran said. “It’s tough for children if they can’t understand everything the teacher says or communicate their ideas.”

Due to difficulty communicating with friends, children with undiagnosed language disorders may struggle to develop friendships. These children may appear distracted or defiant in school. In actuality, they really have a hard time because language demands are so high.

Language disorders and hearing loss can be treated. Identifying and providing treatment early is key to helping children succeed in school and the community.

“Parents may notice certain warning signs, but may not be aware that these are potential signs of hearing or language difficulties,” Curran said.

Signs of language disorder include:

• Grammatical errors when speaking (ex. I walk to the store. Him jumping);
• Smaller vocabulary than same-age peers
• Sentences one to three words shorter than same-age peers

Signs of a hearing disorder include:

• Delays in speech/language development
• Does not follow simple directions
• Complains of earaches or ear pain

Screening description

The TELL Lab will provide free language screenings for monolingual English-speaking children from ages eight months through 18 years old. The lab will also provide free hearing screenings for children preschool age through 18 years old. Screenings take approximately 20 minutes.

The lab will give parents resources about child language development and contacts to seek a more in-depth evaluation of their child’s communication skills. Parents may reserve a slot ahead of time. Walk-ins are also welcome. Please register in advance. For questions, contact Maura Curran at 302-831-7121 or tell-lab@udel.edu.

For more information on early identification, visit IdentifyTheSigns.org.