Understanding Expressive-Receptive Language Development: A Guide for Parents
When it comes to your child’s communication skills, you may hear the terms expressive and receptive language — but what do they really mean, and why do they matter? Let’s break it down together.
What Is Expressive-Receptive Language?
Receptive language is your child’s ability to understand the words and messages they hear or read. It includes skills like following directions, understanding questions, and making sense of what others say.
Expressive language is how your child uses words, gestures, or other ways to share their own thoughts, ideas, and feelings with you and the world around them.
Simply put:
Receptive language = understanding
Expressive language = expressing
Both areas work together to help your child communicate effectively every day.
Why Does It Matter?
Strong expressive-receptive language skills help your child:
Make their needs and wants known
Build friendships and connect with family
Follow directions and routines
Succeed in school and learning environments
Feel confident when interacting with others
When one area is delayed, it can make everyday tasks — from playtime to classroom learning — more challenging. Early support makes a huge difference!
What Should You Look Out For?
Every child develops at their own pace, but here are some signs that your child may need extra support with expressive-receptive language:
Receptive language:
Trouble following simple directions (“Get your shoes.”)
Difficulty answering basic questions (“What’s that?”)
Seeming confused by what others say
Expressive language:
Limited vocabulary for their age
Difficulty putting words together into phrases or sentences
Trouble asking or answering questions
Struggling to tell simple stories
If you’re noticing any of these, you’re not alone — and help is available.
How We Can Help
At B.well, we offer child-led, individualized therapy to help your child strengthen both receptive and expressive language skills.
Depending on your child’s needs, we might:
Use play-based activities to build vocabulary and understanding
Practice following directions and answering questions in fun, everyday ways
Model new words and phrases during play
Use visual supports or gestures to help understanding
Coach you on simple strategies you can use at home to keep progress going
Our goal is to build communication through connection, trust, and play — helping your child grow in confidence and skills at their own pace.
Ready to Support Your Child’s Communication?
If you have questions about your child’s speech and language development, we’re here for you.
Contact B.well today to schedule an evaluation or chat with one of our certified Speech-Language Pathologists.
Together, we can help your child thrive!
Blog Post by Samy Hernandez
