ICHI interventions for Developmental Language Disorder

When a young child's words lag while everything else moves forward, the right intervention codes turn concern into a concrete care plan.

In short

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD, ICD-11 6A01.2) is addressed in WHO's International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI) primarily through interventions on language functions — assessment, training and therapy targeting receptive and expressive language, alongside caregiver-mediated and educational support. ICHI codes are built on the Target–Action–Means axis, so the relevant entries cluster around the target of language and communication functions: structured language therapy, communication training, caregiver coaching, and assessment of language functioning. ICHI is a functioning-and-intervention classification, not a billing system — it complements the ICD-11 diagnosis and the ICF functioning profile.

The interventions that apply

For DLD in young children, the clinically meaningful ICHI clusters are:

• Assessment of language functions — structured evaluation of receptive comprehension, expressive vocabulary, morphosyntax and narrative, establishing a functioning baseline.
• Therapeutic interventions on expressive and receptive language functions — direct, individualised speech-and-language therapy targeting word-finding, grammar, sentence formulation and comprehension.
• Training in communication — building functional communication strategies, including augmentative supports where spoken output is limited.
• Caregiver-mediated / education and training of carers — coaching parents in language-rich interaction, responsive turn-taking and home practice that generalises gains.
• Liaison with educational settings — interventions supporting participation and curriculum access, reflecting DLD's impact on learning.

Because ICHI is read on the Target–Action–Means axes, the same diagnosis maps to several intervention entries — the clinician selects by the child's specific receptive/expressive profile, not by the label alone.

When to refer

Refer a young child for language assessment when expressive or receptive language is persistently behind peers, is not explained by hearing loss, global delay or limited exposure, and is affecting everyday communication. Early structured intervention is associated with better functional outcomes, so referral should not wait for a child to "catch up".

The Pinnacle way

Developmental measurement supports care planning; diagnosis requires an appropriately qualified healthcare professional., under qualified clinician care — never from an online form or this page. Our therapists map each child's language profile to targeted intervention before building the plan. Explore speech therapy, understand the baseline via the AbilityScore, or start here.

Trusted sources

WHO International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI); WHO ICD-11 entry 6A01.2 Developmental Language Disorder; WHO ICF framework for functioning; ASHA practice guidance on language disorders in children.

Next step — Map a child's DLD profile to the right intervention plan — partner with a Pinnacle clinician.

This is general information, not a diagnosis — individual assessment and diagnosis require an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.