​Careful screening by an SLP is warranted to identify young children at risk for language disorders and determine the need for further speech-language/communication assessment or referral for other professional services. 

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Screening usually lasts 15-20 minutes, and it could be completed at home, daycare, or preschool. 

 

Screening typically includes:

• gathering information from parents, caregivers, and/or preschool teachers

• conducting a hearing screening to rule out hearing loss 

• using a formal screening tool, observations, and parent questionnaires and checklists to obtain information about the child's communication behaviors

• using other language assessment methods if needed

• gathering information about speech sound development 

 

Screening may result in recommendations for:

• a complete audiological assessment

• plans to monitor speech and language development

• suggestions for encouraging language development using language stimulation activities

• a comprehensive speech and language assessment that includes an evaluation of social communication skills, symbolic play, and use of gestures

• a referral for medical or other professional services

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Screening results will be reported in a checklist with recommendations. This should NOT be considered a comprehensive evaluation.