Advancements and Challenges in Speech, Language, Swallowing, Orofacial and Hearing Disorders Research

In the realm of speech-language pathology, swallowing, and audiology, neurodevelopmental disorders represent a significant concern, affecting about 11% of children as per the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. These conditions, often idiopathic or tied to various risk factors such as prematurity, environmental adversities, and familial socio-economic challenges, substantially hinder children's speech, hearing, and oral motor abilities. Recent studies emphasize their detrimental effects on essential life functions and the development of vital communication and academic proficiencies.

This Research Topic aims to enhance the understanding and management of neurodevelopmental disorders in communication, hearing, and orofacial functions. By advancing diagnostic tools, assessment scales, and early intervention techniques, the research seeks to mitigate the long-term impacts on social integration and academic success. Enhancing our comprehension of these disorders in the contemporary context of changing lifestyles and social engagement is paramount.

To gather further insights within the specified boundaries of speech, language, and hearing disabilities, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Development and validation of assessment tools for early detection
• Innovative diagnostic protocols for hearing and speech impairments
• Early intervention strategies for orofacial and feeding disorders
• Implementation of educational support systems in schools
• Cross-disciplinary approaches to treatment and management

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Speech and Hearing, Early Intervention, Diagnostic Tools, Communication Disabilities

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.