Developmental Language Disorder and developmental neuropsychology: an exploration of executive functions and motor coordination in preschoolers

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) presents a significant challenge, affecting language development and other cognitive areas such as motor coordination and executive functions (EF). This study examined the relationship between executive functions (working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility) and motor skills in a sample of 22 preschool children with DLD and a control group of 22 typically developing peers. Using age-appropriate neuropsychological assessments, the results showed that children with DLD exhibit significant deficits in inhibition and cognitive flexibility compared to typically developing peers. Additionally, correlations emerged between cognitive flexibility deficits and lower motor and planning abilities. These findings suggest a deep connection between the development of language, motor skills, and executive functions, highlighting the importance of early interventions to improve outcomes for children with DLD.