This pamphlet presents an overview of speech and language disorders including a description of symptoms, possible causes, identification, intervention, and current research. Description of the disorders includes examples of symptoms; the four components and the physical tools of speech; and the role of the brain, including its hemispheres, problems during maturation, and its language centers. Examples are given of speech disorders (phonological impairment, verbal dyspraxia, and dysarthria); language disorders (form errors, content errors, and use errors) and expressive and receptive language disorders. The concept of delay versus disorder is discussed. The process of handicap identification is described, noting conditions which must be ruled out and stressing the importance of early identification and intervention. Current methods of therapy are described, and research is cited indicating that speech disorders may be outgrown by adolescence but that difficulties involving language use may persist into adulthood. Ongoing research involves investigation of differences in brain organization, investigation of the genetic connection, and the use of computers to train children with language impairments to process speech and language more rapidly. Seven organizations are listed to write or call for additional information. A chart of language milestones for ages one through six is also provided. (BRM)