Dear Frankie,
Can we talk about DLD?
DLD is a hidden but very common condition affecting about 1 out of 15 children.
You are not alone my Love.
Using language is a skill that allows us to share our ideas and feelings, to learn in school, and to understand the world around us.
Unfortunately, using and understanding language is not easy for everyone, especially for people with developmental language disorder (or DLD).
It is very important that together we raise awareness for DLD so that the condition will become less mysterious and the lives of children like yourself who have DLD will become easier.
If more people could imagine what it would be like to struggle to understand what people are saying to them or to put their thoughts into words, they might be able to relate better, to communicate more effectively and to be more patient.
It’s so much harder to share stories, to understand what your teacher is asking you to do, or to explain to your friends why you are feeling upset when you have DLD I know and I’m sorry you have been bullied because of it.
Sometimes people just don’t understand, they’re not aware or educated on the matter.
Do you remember when one of your school teachers advised me to ‘shout at you more,’ when we were discussing your learning at a parent’s evening?
I’m sorry I didn’t take that comment up further at the time, I laughed and shrugged it off thinking she was joking.
She wasn’t was she?
Sadly not everyone joins the teaching profession for the right reason but there are other teachers out there who know exactly where you’re coming from.
Mama J and I know where you’re coming from too my Love, so don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Lots of other children with DLD have problems properly using language in social situations.
Children with DLD might have trouble staying on topic, taking turns in a conversation, or understanding long sentences.
These children may have trouble sharing detailed information and It might be hard for children with DLD to use words to talk about how they are feeling.
This difficulty with making people understand a problem they are having can make children with DLD feel frustrated or angry, and act in ways they are not supposed to.
I am so proud of you Frankie, not once have you lashed out and hurt others because of it.
Although these language problems are common in children with DLD it is very important to remember that no two children have the same language skills, communication, or learning abilities, they are all as unique as you are.
Remember, you are not stupid, thick, daft or dumb. Children have called you these names on occasion and still you try your hardest to forgive and educate them.
Remember you are clever, smart and intelligent, you use language in a different way and what you have to say, in the way you say it, has value.
Great value.
DLD won’t stop you achieving great things in life Frankie trust me, those 3 letters just help explain how you might communicate differently and do you know what? The more people that know about DLD the better so they can become better at listening and understanding where you’re coming from too.
Forever yours,
Mum x
25/04/2022