Gestalt Language Processing: What Parents Need to Know

Gestalt language processing… analytic language processing… these phrases may seem overwhelming at first, but they are simply two ways to understand how children develop language. When parents and therapists understand how a child processes language, it unlocks a world of understanding and possibilities for children who may seem to be struggling with reaching language milestones. 

Analytic Language Processing 

First, let’s break down analytic language processing. This process of learning language is what many people think of when they picture a toddler first starting to speak. Analytic language processors begin speaking using single words, and as their language progresses they begin to combine words into longer and more complex sentences. This is what many parents expect to see as their children begin to speak; however, there is another type of language processing. 

Gestalt Language Processing 

Gestalt language processing (GLP) is different from analytic language processing in that emergent speakers don’t start talking with the typical first, single-word phrases. Rather, they begin with phrases or sentences. Initially, these phrases act as one unit of meaning rather than an individual meaning being understood for each word of the phrase. These phrases are known as “gestalts.” As language skills advance, children begin to break down the gestalts into smaller units of meaning. 

GLP Stages of Development 

Just as analytic language processors will learn to communicate using complex, original language, so will children who are gestalt language processors; the journey will just look a little different. Parents of gestalt language processors can expect language development to look like this: 

1. Gestalts: Children in this stage are using short phrases or long strings of language to communicate one single meaning. These gestalts often come from movies, songs, books, or other people. An example of a gestalt at this stage may be: “You naughty monkey!” (learned from reading Curious George). In this instance, the child uses the gestalt when they or someone else does something silly or naughty; however, they do not understand each individual word on its own. 

2. Segmenting and mixing gestalts: At this stage, children begin to “mix and match” or break down gestalts into smaller phrases, showing greater understanding of the individual words in each phrase. Example: “Naughty monkey!” or “Monkey + run away.” 

3. Single-word and two-word phrases: The understanding of individual words as their own unit of meaning is really locked in here. Children will begin to communicate using independently generated words or phrases, rather than repeated phrases. Example: “Naughty!” or “Naughty boy.” or “Monkey funny.” 

4. Original phrases and sentences: The next stage of language development consists of children producing phrases and sentences of increasing length and complexity. Example: “That is naughty boy.” Or more complex:  “That boy is being naughty.” 

Therapy and GLP 

If your child is behind in reaching typical language milestones and you suspect they may be a gestalt language processor, speech therapy can help! Here are a few key aspects of GLP speech therapy: 

1. First and foremost, therapists focus on creating a strong connection based on shared interests and enjoyed activities. Therapy is always most meaningful in an enjoyable environment, but when it comes to GLP specifically, therapists and families will have the most success in understanding and unlocking meaningful gestalt communication when the personal connection between the therapist and child is strong. 

2. The therapist and family will engage in detective work to determine what gestalts mean for your child. Parents will often keep note of gestalts they know the meaning of as well as lists of phrases they hear but are unsure of the meaning. Therapists will do the same, and with the therapist's understanding of language combined with the family’s expertise on their child, come to discover the ways your child is already communicating. 

3. If your child is using a limited number of gestalts, an early goal of therapy will be to establish more gestalts so they can communicate more fully. This is where a strong child/family + therapist relationship is vital! Many gestalts are formed as a result of emotional experiences (e.g., a line from a favorite book that was funny; a phrase from a favorite movie; a phrase that a loved one uses when they greet your child). A deep understanding of your child can help create more of these experiences where language is exciting. 

4. A tool that is often used in GLP therapy is using rich vocal intonation or songs. Many children who are gestalt language processors are highly in-tune with melody, whether that be the “melody” of a sentence or music itself. Pairing helpful phrases with preferred music or a captivating tone of voice can encourage use of new gestalts.

5. Finally, after a greater repertoire of gestalts is established, your speech therapist will assist in breaking down gestalts into smaller, meaningful parts so that your child can begin producing novel phrases and sentences of increasing complexity. 

If you suspect that your child could benefit from speech therapy, reach out to a therapist at Homegrown Kids Therapy! Call or text 515-216-0091 or fill out a Contact Form to get started.