LPD is a neurological problem.  The exact cause is often unknown. LPD affects the skills needed to deal with information presented verbally. Those skills include attention, memory, following directions, learning, and sometimes even reading and spelling.

Typical Issues Related to a Language Processing Disorder

Children with LPD often have trouble with:

• Following multistep directions
• Following spoken directions
• Rhyming, reading, spelling and writing
• Understanding and joining in conversations with peers and adults
• Vocabulary and sentence structure

Treatment for LPD includes therapy that is based on the child’s individual needs. Therapy may include:

• Improving listening skills
• Working on ways for the child to be a successful learner at school and in the community
• Computer programs and assistive listening devices to improve the processing skills

 A team that includes a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, teacher and pediatrician is important to help improve the outcome of a child  with LPD.

• Give simple and direct instructions.
• Reduce background noise at home.
• Get the child’s attention before giving directions.
• Speak clearly while facing the child.
• Use pictures to support what is being said.
• Ask the child to restate what is heard.
• Provide predictable routines for daily living.