Working Memory \u26 Executive Functioning: Treatment of Children with Specific Language Impairments (SLI)

Our research project assessed the affect executive functions (EF) has on the development of language in children with specific language impairments (SLI) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We have specifically compared treatments that included either intense therapy on working memory and language, or therapy that only targets language skills. Previous research has concluded that EF development reflects the individual’s ability to learn (Traverso, Viterbori, \u26 Uasi, 2015). Working memory is a task that relates to EF, which also relates to individuals with SLI. There has been some research on the relationship between working memory and children with SLI. The research claims that children illustrate more difficulty with complex tasks in relation to their working memory and language capabilities (Marton \u26 Schwartz, 2003). However, there needs to be more research conducted on this topic, paying close attention to aspects such as working memory in children with SLI. While researching this topic, we hoped to discover treatment plans that enhance children’s language skills while also improving his or her working memory (EF skills)