Instruments for the screening of speech/language development in children

This article discusses issues relevant to the use of an instrument that screens speech and language development and reviews instruments that are currently available for screening general speech and language development in children age birth through 8 years. Five instruments for the assessment of general speech and language development are reviewed. Each of these instruments has strengths, but none completely meets the requirements of psychometric soundness and practicality for use in most ambulatory pediatric settings. Each practitioner should consider the strengths and limitations associated with each instrument, as well as the needs and characteristics of the population who will be screened to make an informed decision about the most appropriate instrument(s) for use in their practice.