Application of the ICF in Children with Language Impairments

ABSTRACT

The use of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) for children with language impairments/disorders is explained. Types of child language impairments and the ways that these impairments limit children's abilities to do tasks and restrict their participation in life activities are described. Strategies for assessing children's capacity to perform activities and their actual performance of these activities in life situations are provided. The distinction between goals that address the impairment aspects of the language disorders and the limitations and restrictions resulting from these impairments is demonstrated.

KEYWORDS

International Classification of Functioning - Disability and Health (ICF) specific language impairment - semantic-pragmatic disorder - autism - social goals

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