International Help : Advance Ability

International Help

Dear Ruth,
I am writing to ask for guidance with regards to my daughter 'Tarra' who just turned 8.

Tarra is very sweet, normal in every social and behavioral aspect of life with average IQ as diagnosed by several psychologists and educational specialists both in Dallas (where she was until the age of 7) and here in Indonesia. Her language development has been below par, and she has been diagnosed with "severe language disability." She had various bouts of ear infections before the age of two and a half, which may have contributed to her slow progress in language development.

We want to provide Tarra with the quickest and best possible help so that she can develop her language skills. We would appreciate information on where she can get such help in the Pacific Rim region (Hong Kong, Singapore, etc.).
V.G.

Dear V.G.,

If your physician, local schools or Universities are not able to direct you, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) can can help you locate qualified help internationally. Visit www.ASHA.org or phone the ASHA Action Center in the U.S., 800-498-2071. An audiologist can determine whether Tarra’s hearing is adequate for learning language; and a speech/language pathologist can assist with language development. I would look for a speech/language pathologist who does thorough auditory training of speech sounds as part of a language development program. Language disorders can have academic and social consequences, and you are correct in seeking help now.

Best Wishes,
Ruth Alice Jurey, M.S.
Speech/Language Pathologist