Speech and Language
It is easy to confuse speech, language, and communication; however, there are important differences.
- Speech – involves the use of vocalization and spoken words.
- Language – involves the use of an organized system of signals—from spoken words to physical gestures to written symbols.
- Communication – involves the use of speech, language, or behaviors.
A baby communicates without speech or language—they cry, gurgle, smile, and frown. Communication happens. As we grow up, the development of language is an important part of making us who we are.
Research finds that there are key “windows of opportunity” in the first few years of a child’s life for learning language—whether written, spoken, or based on physical gestures. If language skills are not developed during these key times, it can be difficult to fully develop language skills later in life.
Speech also depends on learning skills during certain key times. Speech involves coordinating many muscles in the head, neck, chest, and abdomen. In children, this is a complex skill that takes years of practice. In children with hearing problems, learning to control the muscles needed for clear speech can be especially challenging.
Much of daily life depends on the face-to-face exchange of ideas and information. In addition to oral speech and written language, other communication options—different forms of “language” and other strategies—are useful for people with more severe hearing loss.
