How can I help my GLP at home? 

A gestalt language processor learns language in chunks of words rather than one single word at a time. With analytic language learning, a child will begin with single words and begin to combine words, forming longer utterances over time (e.g., “car”, then “red car”, and eventually “It’s a red car!”). Gestalt language processors, however, often begin by imitating phrases or even complete sentences they’ve heard before! For example, if they’ve heard a caregiver say, “Wow, that’s a fast red car!” they may use this phrase to comment every time they see a car (despite its color). Please refer to this previous blog post to learn more about gestalt language processing. https://kidtherapy.org/helpful-articles/what-is-gestalt-language-learning/  

Practical tips for home:  

1. Consult a speech language pathologist to determine if your child is a GLP. You can request therapists who have completed specialized training in this area.  

2. Play, play, play! Follow your child’s lead and incorporate their interests when possible.  

3. Honor ALL attempts at communication. This can look like smiling, repeating what you have heard, saying “I heard you, etc.  

4. Regulation is key! Just like adults, kids need to have their basic physical, emotional, and sensory needs met to be ready to learn (read about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs for more info). Consult with an occupational therapist to get strategies for supporting your child’s sensory needs. 

5. Enjoy your child’s preferred media with them (TV shows, movies, songs, etc.)! Our goal is to be an effective detective when finding the meaning of a gestalt – and many gestalts are learned from favorite shows and movies! 

6. Model all forms of communication (AAC, sign language, pointing, scripts, etc.). 

7. Become a detective! We often have to dig deeper to locate the meaning of true scripts/gestalts. Keep track of gestalts you have heard and the context to help determine the meaning.  

8. Avoid questions and too many directions; make the switch to declarative language  

Sources  

• Meaningful Speech Course  

• Kathryn Arnold, MCD, CCC-SLP (Meaningful Speech Caregiver Handout)  

• @bohospeechie on Instagram  

• @cariebertseminars on Instagram  

Eman Issa MS. CCC-SLP