Where+do+I+begin?

In order to best serve your child and his or her needs, you need to first understand the process of speech and language, the nature of speech-language pathology as a profession and your role in your child's treatment. Be the best advocate you can be for your child. There is much to be learned and many resources to seek out.

Let's begin by defining communication, speech and language...
 * **Communication:** is the process is sending and receiving of messages, information or feelings
 * **Language:** is a culturally shared code in which symbols are used to represent something else that is rule governed
 * **Speech:** is the oral expression of language that requires production of coded symbols

Reference: Reed, V. A. (2005) //An introduction to children with language disorders (3////rd// //ed.)// Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

Refer to the "@Developmental Milestones" page of this wiki for ages and descriptions of typically developing speech and language


 * Speech and Language Disorders**

Refer to the American Speech Language Hearing Association for a full outline of disorders and diseases associated with speech and language in all domains and across children and adults: @http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/


 * What does an SLP do?**

Refer to the "@What is Speech-Language Pathology?" page of this wiki for a detailed description of the profession and what an SLP is responsible for. For a more detailed look into the Speech-Language Pathology profession, visit ASHA's Fact Sheet for Speech-Language Pathology


 * How do I find a Professional?**

If you are concerned about your child's speech and/or language development and/or want the opinion of an SLP ASHA provides an SLP search on their website that allows parents or other individuals to seek out SLPs in their area. Check it out at @http://www.asha.org/findpro/

__Contact us:__ Allison Dinsmore adinsmore@worcester.edu Amanda Wolford awolford@worcester.edu Brigitte Foisy bfoisy@worcester.edu Erica Randall erandall@worcester.edu Worcester State Speech-Language-Hearing Center 508-929-8055 Worcester State University 486 Chandler Street Worcester, MA