The learning of a second language before the primary language is fully developed may result in arrested development or loss of proficiency in the first language. Therefore, the finding that a child is delayed in both languages does not necessarily mean that the child has a language disorder. This article presents a case study of a child who was classified as communication disabled but seems to have suffered from language loss or arrested development of the primary language (Spanish) before attaining full competence in English. The child experienced a temporary delay of development in both languages but eventually mastered English.
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