Communication disorders in preschool children

Competence in the broad range of communication skills is essential for a full and varied life experience. Yet speech, language and communication difficulties are amongst the most common of all childhood difficulties and cause parents and professionals considerable concern. This brief review of common causes of communication disability provides information about aetiology, prevalence and current practice in direct and indirect treatment as well as educational contexts. The research base relating to intervention is limited, with very few studies that would meet the requirements of rigorous medical research. However, the literature is reviewed here, and prognoses and long-term outcomes are considered.