Did you know that there are two ways children can develop language?!
Most people are only familiar with Analytic Language Learning; however the second type of language learning, Gestalt Language Learning, also known as Gestalt Language Processing (GLP), is an equally valid pattern of language learning. Both ways of learning language can result in original, flexible language, but the steps to getting there are very different.
For an overview of Analytic and Gestalt Language Learning, see the table below.
| Analytic Language Learning | Gestalt Language Learning |
| Firstly learns and understands the meaning of single words. | Firstly memorizes and repeats phrases (early phrases tend to be from favourite TV shows and movies). |
| Next learns how words function in a sentence and starts to string words together. | Next starts to understand the meaning of individual words within a phrase and starts to ‘mix and match’ words to create new phrases. |
| Analytic Language Learners may imitate single words early on, but very quickly words and word combinations are original and flexible. | Gestalt Language Learner’s speech may be labeled as echolalic. |
| Intonation develops later on, after an analytic language learner is using longer utterances and sentences. | Early jargon and language is rich in intonation. |
| Words and phrases used usually carry literal meaning. | The intended meaning of a child’s phrases, or scripts, frequently is not the literal meaning (e.g., “Happy birthday” might mean ‘I want cake.’). |
| Pronouns and grammatical concepts develop predictably as language develops. | Gestalt Language Learners commonly speak in the third person and make pronoun errors. |
If your child’s language is delayed, it is important to work with their speech and language therapist to determine whether your child is an Analytic or Gestalt Language Learner. Your child’s specific language learning pattern will inform therapy and help your speech and language therapist decide which language learning strategies will be most supportive for your child.
If you would like more information about children’s language development, please get in touch. Follow us on Facebook for more speech, language and feeding tips and sign up for South Lakes Speech & Language Therapy’s newsletter if you would like new posts sent directly to your inbox.