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Some children have difficulty effectively using language. A child may misuse and also misunderstand language on a consistent basis whether he or she is non-verbal or extremely verbal, and in such cases, speech-language therapy is an effective treatment. This therapy focuses not just on the oral-motor skills necessary for proper speaking (proper structure and function of the lips, tongue, jaw and cheeks), but on the overall ability of the child to effectively communicate. Problems in communication such as severe language deficits, frequent repetition of words or phrases, conversation skills, understanding facial expression, body orientation, echolalia and improper rhythm and intonation are addressed by speech-language therapists. |