Speech vs Language: What's the difference?

If you have been wondering why your child has been referred to a Speech Therapist when their challenges seem more about understanding and/or expressing ideas; here's why!

Many people use the terms speech and language interchangeably - but they are not the same thing.

What is Speech?

Speech is how you produce sounds and words. It's the physical act of talking clearly and includes -

1. Articulation - how you move your lips, tongue and jaw to make intelligible sounds.

2. Voice - how you use your vocal chords to produce sounds (to loud, to soft, hoarse or nasal).

3. Fluency - the rhythm and flow of speech (like stuttering).

A child who knows what they want to say but has trouble pronouncing words may have a speech delay.

What is Language?

Language is the "what" of communication. What words mean, how we use them and how we connect them to each other. It includes-

1. Receptive Language - the ability to understand concepts, what is being said or asked.

2. Expressive Language - the ability to use words, grammar and sentences meaningfully to share thoughts and ideas.

3. Pragmatics - using language socially such as turntaking, eye contact and body language.

   
   

   Some children speak clearly, but struggle to form sentences or follow instructions. They may have a language delay.

   
   

   Some may have both speech and language difficulties and so understanding the differences helps parents, teachers and caregivers know what to look out for.

   
   

   Reach out early as it makes the world of difference to the outcome.