20% of 4-year old children have difficulty understanding or using language.
50-90% of children with persistent speech, language and communication difficulties go on to have reading difficulties.
Communication difficulties can sometimes run in families, and sometimes their cause is unknown. They can also be misunderstood and misdiagnosed.
Speech and language difficulties can affect participating and learning at school including literacy, numeracy and interacting socially with other children.
Adolescents with communication difficulties are known to be at risk for academic, social, emotional and behavioural problems.
Long term implications of speech and language impairment include poor academic achievement, risk to mental health, reduced employment options and social isolation.
