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There are two ways that children learn and develop language. Analytic Language Development (ALD) is best described as language learning that starts at the single-word level and builds into phrases and eventually sentences. Norms for ALD are found on my communication milestones page. Gestalt Language Development is best described as language learned in larger chunks of words first, rather than single words. Just like analytic language processors, gestalt language processors can be delayed in their language development too.
Gestalt Language Processors (GLP) go through six stages of development, which are listed below. While many Autistic individuals are GLP, neurotypical individuals can be GLP as well. I am a GLP-trained clinician, and I can work with you to determine if your child may be a GLP. For more information regarding Gestalt Language, please consider visiting meaningfulspeech.com.
Here are some helpful terms when learning/reading about Gestalt Language Development:
Immediate Echolalia: words, phrases, or sentences that are repeated immediately after they are heard.
Delayed Echolalia: words, phrases, or sentences that are repeated at a later time (can be minutes, hours, days, or even months later).
Gestalt: intonationally defined whole unit of language (can be a word, phrase, sentence) that is used to communicate and is typically tied to an emotional or dramatic experience.
Stages of Gestalt Language Development
Stage 1 | In stage 1, a child uses gestalt language (delayed echolalia) to communicate. It may look like lines from their favorite movies, shows, or songs that serve a meaningful communicative purpose. |
Stage 2 | In stage 2, a child begins to break apart language chunks (mitigate) and communicate more flexibly with smaller chunks. For example, they may use a part of a gestalt from stage 1 and combine it with a part of another gestalt. |
Stage 3 | In stage 3, a child begins to isolate single words and use single words and novel 2-word combinations to communicate. |
Stage 4 | In stage 4, a child uses pre-sentence grammar in novel phrases. |
Stage 5 | In stage 5, a child begins to form first sentences using early grammar. |
Stage 6 | In stage 6, a child uses more complex sentences and grammar. |
Check out this helpful handout from Meaningful Speech!
Sources: "Masterclass on Echolalia and Child-Led Therapy" by Meaningful Speech
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