Speech and Language Development
This pyramid shows how speech and language develops. In order to reach the top of the pyramid, children need to be able to develop skills from the bottom and work their way up to the top.
The most fundamental skill children need is to develop their attention and listening skills before they develop their speech, articulation and fluency skills.
Each level of the pyramid supports the one above it, so if the child has not mastered the lower levels of the pyramid, they will have difficulties with the above levels.
Speech pronunciation and fluency skills
This is the pronunciation and development of a range of sounds used for talking. We use our tongue, lips, teeth, and other parts of our mouth to create different speech sounds.
Expressive language
This is the ability to express our thoughts, feelings using words, gestures, signs and symbols. It is the ability to use words in sentences and conversation following grammatical rules.
Understanding of language
This is the ability to understand questions and follow instructions, as well as understanding written words.
Play and Interaction
Play and interaction are important for children’s development, and can help them learn social skills, language, and problem solving.
Attention and listening
Attention and listening skills are the ability to focus on specific sounds or tasks, and to listen to others. They are important for learning, communication, and social skills.