What is the difference between receptive and expressive language?

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There are a variety of areas of speech and language development that are needed for children to communicate successfully. Two important areas that are often confused are receptive and expressive language. 

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Receptive language refers to the way your child is taking in and processing information in order to understand the world around them. 

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Expressive language refers to the way your child then communicates what is understood. 

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It is important to note that language does not always refer to verbal communication, but can also include sign language, gestures, word approximations, sounds, or use of pictures to express an intended message. Children may have a delay in one or both of these language areas. However, sometimes it may be difficult to determine in which area the difficulty is occurring. 

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Here are some skills to look for in order to distinguish between these two areas of language:

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A receptive language delay may include difficulty with: 

• Pointing to labeled objects
• Following 1-2 step directions
• Understanding a variety of “WH” questions (e.g., can your child point if you ask WHERE something is)
• Performing requested commands (e.g., “come here”)
• Matching colors/shapes/sizes
• Understanding prepositions (i.e., location words: in, under, etc.)
• Attending to stories or simple conversations
• Playing age-appropriate games or taking turns

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An expressive language delay may include difficulty with:

• Imitating sounds/words
• Using spontaneous and non-imitated language
• Naming common objects/people
• Filling in songs or repetitive books
• Completing closure tasks (e.g. filling in “go” after "ready, set…”)
• Requesting a preferred item
• Asking for help
• Saying “yes” or “no”
• Labeling colors/shapes/sizes
• Labeling prepositions

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When should I seek help?

If your child has difficulty with some or all of these skills, it may indicate a language delay. Delayed receptive language skills can make it difficult for expressive language skills to develop. Delayed expressive language skills can also make it difficult to determine what your child truly understands receptively. A specialist can help determine where the language breakdown is and help improve your child’s communication skills . If you have any concerns regarding your child’s language development, a speech therapist can help. Take the Ladder Health Intake Screener here to get started.