Rehabilitation and Prognosis of Developmental Disorders of Speech and Language

Several behavioural speech-language therapies have been proven in meta-analyses and systematic reviews to be effective in the treatment of developmental disorders of speech and language (DDSL), at least in the short term. Computerised intervention programmes have not shown convincing evidence for their superiority over conventional treatment. Additional interventions may help to improve a child’s language outcome, such as occupational therapy that addresses the challenges in children’s daily occupations (e.g. self-care, being productive, leisure) or physiotherapy for neuromotor disorders and sensorimotor difficulties. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions are usually applied for children with profound impairment of their communication. Duties of phoniatricians in the management of DDSL comprise an early detection; diagnostics by using valid assessment tools, including the identification of co-morbidities; making the diagnosis; parent counselling; setting-up of an intervention plan; and supervision and regular outcome assessment of treatment and rehabilitation.