Speech or Language Impairment (SLI): Helping Students Communicate with Confidence
- Lyssete Tagulao
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Definition
Under IDEA, a Speech or Language Impairment is a communication disorder such as stuttering, impaired articulation, a language processing disorder, or a voice disorder that adversely affects a child’s educational performance. It can impact how a student understands or uses words, sounds, and sentences, both in spoken and written communication.
Characteristics
Students with SLI may:
Have trouble pronouncing words clearly
Struggle to form full sentences or express thoughts
Use fewer words than peers of the same age
Have difficulty understanding spoken instructions
Speak with a hoarse, nasal, or stuttered voice
Avoid speaking in class due to frustration or embarrassment
Accommodations & Modifications
Teachers and speech-language pathologists can support students with SLI by:
Allowing extra time to speak or answer questions
Using visual supports (pictures, symbols, gestures)
Providing sentence starters or vocabulary prompts
Allowing non-verbal responses (pointing, drawing, selecting)
Giving directions one step at a time
Offering speech therapy sessions or language interventions
Encouraging peer support and patience during conversations
Resources
The official site for speech-language professionals; includes parent-friendly guides to speech and language disorders, milestones, and support strategies.
Explains the types of speech/language difficulties and how they affect reading, writing, and learning.
3. 📽 Video: Help for Learners with Speech and Language Impairment | What is Speech and Language Impairment?
A helpful video that clearly explains what speech or language impairments are, their impact in the classroom, and ways to support learners.
4. 📖 Book: Improving Speech and Eating Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders by Maureen A. Flanagan
Though focused on autism, this practical book offers helpful speech-building techniques, oral-motor strategies, and communication routines that benefit many children with speech or language challenges.
Parent-friendly overview of speech and language impairments with tips for supporting communication at home and in school.
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