Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Speech and Language Services
Speech refers to the expressive output of language - specifically, the formulation of words (or sign language), within the areas of articulation, voice and fluency. Use of articulators requires integration of fine motor articulators including the mouth, lips and tongue. When using sign language, articulation is still a fine motor activity, however, the focus is more on the movement of the hands, eyes and fingers. Voice refers to the vocal folds and tract, as well as breath support, and fluency refers to the flow and timing of speech.
Language is inclusive of the meaning behind speech sounds, sign language, and written language in order to convey a message. Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) work within the 5 Domains of Language to make evidence- based decisions regarding Speech and Language Services. The five domains are: phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax and pragmatics. Phonology is the study of individual sounds, whereas morphology focuses on units of language carrying meaning. Syntax is defined as sentence structure, whereas semantics is the rule-governing facet of language. Pragmatics refers to the use of language, including body language as well as social elements and norms.
Speech Language Services
The responsibilities of SLPs include prevention, assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Within school settings, the primary focus for SLPs is communication. Communication refers to the receptive and expressive components that help us interact within our environments, ourselves, others.
Language and Speech Disorders
Individuals can have difficulties with speech and/or language. A receptive language disorder refers to difficulty understanding the input received by the environment, for example, hearing and processing a message or "reading" sign language in real time. Difficulty conveying thoughts, ideas, and feelings is defined as an expressive language disorder. Difficulties can arise within the receptive and/or expressive realms. Frustration can occur when messages cannot be understood or conveyed clearly, and Speech Language Pathologists can assist within these areas.
NJ Code Regulation Reference from 6A:14
- Section 6A:14-3.6 Determation of eligibility for speech-language services
- Section 6A:14-4.4 Program criteria: speech-language services
- Section 6A:14-5.1 and 5.2 Providing Educational and Related Services
Memos and Broadcasts
- Delivery of Related Services to Students with Disabilities Through Telepractice (06/04/19)
- Related Services and Home Instruction Provided via Telepractice (9/26/17)
- Clarification of N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.5(c)4 (10/6/15)
- Contracted Providers for Speech-language Services (11/19/13)
- Speech-Language Specialist Regulations (8/27/13)
Information:
- Developmental Milestones from the CDC
- How SLPs can help (NJSHA)
- American Speech and Hearing Association (English) (Spanish)
- List of Acronyms in Education (NJSHA)
- Speech and Language Impairments | Center for Parent Information and Resources (parentcenterhub.org)
Resources:
- Speech and Language Development (English) (Spanish)
- NJDOE's Resource for "Practical Strategies for Building Language - INREAL techniques" (NEW)
- Speech Banana Audiogram
- Multicultural Affairs and Resources
- Information for School-Based SLPs
- New Jersey Speech and Hearing Association (NJSHA)
- Evidence Based Resources
- Advocacy Resources
- Telepractice Resources during COVID-19
- School Age Hearing Screening information