Speech and Language Development

Do CODAs have language development delays? If so, what type?

Even though it is assumed by most that CODAs do have language delays, this is proven false. When researched, it was found that children of deaf adults tested within normal limits in phonological processes, syllable structure, and phonemic inventories (Toohey, 2010). However, it is common to have support in language production, but this is not always needed.

With any individual that grows up speaking two or more languages, development is split between the two languages. Therefore, it is typical that bilingual children do not have the same amount of "words" as their peers because they are also learning the vocabulary of a different language simultaneously. This is why speech-language pathologists will conduct evaluations in both languages. 

Do CODAs need specific language tools to help verbal language development?

CODAs have the ability to master spoken language with little to no problems. However, they can have issues expressing their thoughts and feelings using longer descriptions. In school, language can be supported by providing more conversational opportunities and involving topics that are familiar and shorter in length (Zaborniak-Sobczak, 2021). Also, the individuals speaking with CODAs can help by using visuals and gestures to help communicate, if necessary. 

How do CODAs receive spoken English at such a young age?

Developing children will use fast mapping, which is a fast way of pairing words with previous vocabulary. In the case of CODAs, they fast map with different languages because of their bilingual environment. In some instances, CODAs will be exposed to words, sentences, or questions through spoken language and with their accompanying signs (Brackenbury, 2005). This is very commonly taught when reading books. The adult or provider will point to a word and then show the sign for it, creating cross-linguistic connections. 

What are common phonological traits in CODAs?

Most commonly, CODAs struggle with finding stress and intonation in words. Words in spoken English have inflection based on what the person is trying to communicate. For example, a higher inflection in the last word of a sentence usually means a question is being asked. CODAs sometimes struggle with including appropriate stress patterns in their speech. Another common trait is that intonation is not used during expressive language. In conversation, CODAs tend to produce monotone and adult-like speech (Schiff-Myers, Klein 1985). 

In addition, it has been found that CODAs may have difficulty with certain phonological processes, like stopping and consonant deletion. Because of the unique language environments that surround CODAs as they develop, certain difficulties can be present. It was shown that these difficulties can be present in the speech development of CODAs, but it is important to note that CODA language development is not significant enough to be considered a language deficit (Toohey, 2010).