Hidden in plain sight: Understanding Developmental Language Disorder

17/10/2025 28 min Episodio 10
Hidden in plain sight: Understanding Developmental Language Disorder

Listen "Hidden in plain sight: Understanding Developmental Language Disorder"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Ashley Marsh is joined by speech pathologists Lauren Cook and Lauren Naish from Catholic Education Sandhurst for a practical conversation timed with Developmental Language Disorder Day.DLD - a language difficulty you often can’t see - affects about 1 in 14 children. Lauren Cook and Lauren Naish unpack what DLD is, what it can look and sound like in classrooms, and how teachers and families can spot early signs and support students with simple, high-impact strategies.In this episode, we explore:What DLD is and why the theme 'You can’t see DLD' matters for classrooms and familiesEarly indicators across Foundation to Year 6Practical strategies teachers can use ie slower teacher talk, facing the class, concise instructions and visuals, and adjusting video playbackWhy oral language is foundational to literacy and how gaps in language can undermine even strong reading programsHow system-wide OxEd screening and intervention will work in our schools Whether you’re a teacher, school leader or parent, this episode offers clarity, encouragement and next steps for supporting students with DLD, because when we make language visible, we open doors to learning for every child.Now join us as we explore what truly matters in education.RESOURCESWebsites mentioned in this podcast:Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder (international site)8 classroom tipsThe DLD Project (Australian Site)Speech Pathology AustraliaCommunication milestonesABOUT CATHOLIC EDUCATION SANDHURST Catholic Education Sandhurst is home to 51 Catholic schools across regional and rural Victoria, educating 15,490 students. We partner with schools, students and families to provide innovation and excellence in education, inspired by the Catholic story. Visit www.ceosand.catholic.edu.au or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and