Speech - expressive language - is particularly sensitive to neurological and sensory impairment, and may be the first indicator of severe or profound learning difficulties, or specific language disorders. These tests are designed for use by a wide range of professionals, to assess expressive language delay in the age group 18-36 months; they also give age-norms for older, severely delayed children. They are carefully structured to distinguish between moderate and severe language delay amongst the bottom 15% of the age group - those children most at risk. The test is based on easy-to-use, full colour picture books, which are available in parallel forms (A and B) and are quick to administer and score - no more than ten minutes per test. A parent-help booklet "How to Help Your Child" offers practical advice for encouraging language use and recording progress.