Improving speech and planning skills in preschoolers with language disorders
Official title: Development of Self-Directed Speech and Planning among Preschoolers with Developmental Language Disorder
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10838354 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how preschoolers with developmental language disorder can boost their speaking and thinking skills by using their own words to guide themselves, and it also explores how parents can help these kids become better at solving problems and planning.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $145,953 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC018624-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10838354 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are preschool-aged children diagnosed with developmental language disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Children without developmental language disorders or those who are older than preschool age may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how preschoolers with developmental language disorder (DLD) can enhance their speech and cognitive skills through self-directed speech (SDS). The study aims to understand the relationship between language and cognitive abilities, focusing on how children use internal speech to regulate their thoughts and actions. By examining the role of caregivers in developing these skills, the research seeks to identify effective strategies to support children with DLD in improving their problem-solving and planning abilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive and language skills in preschoolers with developmental language disorder, enhancing their academic and social outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While few studies have specifically examined self-directed speech in children with DLD, previous research indicates that children with DLD exhibit less mature self-directed speech compared to their typically developing peers, suggesting a need for further exploration in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kapa, Leah Lynn — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Kapa, Leah Lynn
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.