Creating an Inclusive Classroom for DLD A Teacher's Toolkit to Support Children with Developmental Language Disorder

About the Author

Introduction

What Is Developmental Language Disorder?

What Are the Signs of DLD?

What Challenges Do Children and Young People with DLD Face?

Why Is it Important to Act Now and Why Include Universal Strategies for All?

Why Is it More Prevalent Today and What Are the Challenges that Schools Face?

The Importance of Developing a Holistic Approach to DLD which Includes Families and Children

Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day

References

Chapter 1 Resources Section

Creating a Safe and Secure Learning Environment

Creating a Positive Classroom Culture

Building Positive Relationships

Reducing Extraneous Cognitive Load

Economy of Language and Extra Processing Time

References

Chapter 2 Resources Section

The Importance of Vocabulary

Vocabulary Exploration and Development

Discussions and Good Talk

Emotional Development and Regulation

References

Recommended Books and Websites

Chapter 3 Resources Section

The Importance of Visuals

Timetables and Boards

Displays and Classroom Resources

Learning Tasks and Activities

References

Chapter 4 Resources Section

Transition

A Whole-class Transition Social Story

References

Chapter 5 Resources Section

Index

Biography

Katie Little is a Special Needs Coordinator (SENCo) at an inner-city school in Bradford. She has worked in mainstream primary schools for over 20 years across the Bradford and Keighley area and has been a SENCo for over six years. Katie is passionate about supporting all children with additional needs, particularly those with Developmental Language Disorder. She has previously worked in an outstanding school where she was instrumental in developing pathways, processes, school guidance and training for SEND. Katie champions self-advocacy in students and strives to enable pupils to understand and achieve their own potential, working closely with families and practitioners collaboratively.

‘At a time when awareness of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is starting to grow in schools, the question turns to "how can we support our students with DLD to learn?" And Katie Little's book fits the bill. Drawing on her experience as a teacher and SENCO, Katie provides a practical and feasible guide. There are hundreds of ideas that will leave the readers thinking "I can do that". But what [she] does extremely well is explain why these methods work. DLD is very common, and so every school needs a copy of this book. And every class teacher needs to be familiar with the content.’
Stephen Parsons, Chair, RADLD International

‘Whether you are working in education, or a parent of a child who is struggling in school, this book is a must-read. Katie offers informative insight into this common but often undiagnosed condition as well as useful tips and guidance to help pupils with DLD flourish at school and beyond!’
Michelle Blanchard MBE, Headteacher in the Beckfoot Trust

‘I love this book! It is written from the heart and experience of a teacher who has been on their own journey of understanding and learning about supporting pupils with DLD. The book is packed with real-life examples, scenarios, case studies and strategies that you can start to put into practice in a mainstream classroom tomorrow. This is a MUST-read for all teachers, and the best bit – the strategies will support ALL pupils, not just those with DLD!’
Victoria Wadsworth, Speech and Language Therapist, Chair of NAPLIC

‘This book is an essential toolkit for teachers looking to better support children with Developmental Language Disorder. With clear explanations, practical strategies and ready-to-use resources, it empowers teachers to create an inclusive classroom environment where all children can thrive. The author’s extensive experience as a teacher and SENCO shines through, making this a valuable and accessible guide for mainstream schools. A must-have for any inclusive classroom!’
Shahnaz Bi, Assistant Principal within the Dixons Academies Trust