Language rehabilitation in the Landau-Kleffner syndrome: Considerations and approaches

Abstract Most of the publications on the rehabilitation of Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) are case studies focussing on the effectiveness of drug therapy. Only little attention has been paid to the educational context and language therapy. A review of the literature reveals that a broad spectrum of visual cues are used as common supports in speech and language therapy. There is a tendency to attempt restoration of oral language first before switching over to alternative communication. The rationale for a restorative approach is based on the use of visual cues in order to facilitate the acquisition of written and spoken language. It is suggested that language therapy can be effective only if embedded in a global approach.