What is the difference between speech and language?

Speech is the production of sounds that make up words and sentences. It involves the coordination of the jaw, lips, tongue, vocal folds (vocal cords), vocal tract and respiration. There are three divisions of speech:

1. Articulation - This is one of the most common reasons parents contact me, I typically hear things like “I am the only person that can understand my daughter.” or “My son is having trouble pronouncing R.” Treating articulation disorders is one of my specialties.
2. Voice - A consistent raspy or hoarse vocal quality or history of vocal nodules is a reason to seek out a speech therapist.  Therapists in New York City who specialize in voice can be found here.
3. Fluency - A disorder of fluency is stuttering. It is considered normal for young children to have some dysfluent speech. If the stuttering becomes more prevalent, it would then be appropriate to consult a speech pathologist who specializes in working with children who stutter, which you can find here.

For helpful information on stuttering, check out: The Stuttering Foundation and National Stuttering Association.

Language refers to how we use words and sentences to communicate. Speaking, gesture use, writing, understanding verbal conversation and understanding what one reads are all language related.

I am a pediatric speech and language pathologist (AKA speech therapist) specializing in improving articulation (speech) and language skills.

I evaluate and treat children in their Manhattan homes and encourage parents to learn how to ask stimulating questions, model language in an optimal way and follow their child’s lead to create an effective playtime.

If you live on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and have speech and / or language concerns for your child, please contact me for an appointment:

Stephanie Sigal M.A. CCC-SLP
phone: 646-295-4473
email: sayandplay@yahoo.com
website: sayandplayfamily