Today, we will define an articulation disorder, also called a speech sound disorder. We will also discuss some underlying causes, as well as when parents should seek the skills of an SLP.
What is an articulation disorder? Articulation disorders refer to mispronouncing sounds in words, such as saying /p/ instead of saying the /f/ sound. These disorders often impact the child's ability to be understood by peers and adults.
Is an articulation disorder developmentally appropriate? Different sounds develop at different ages. By age 6, all speech sounds should be developed. A good rule of thumb is that your child should be understood at least 50% of the time by an unfamiliar listener at age 2, at least 75% of the time by age 3, and 100% of the time by age 4. If you are often translating for your child in preschool, it's best to consult an SLP for skilled intervention.
What can cause an articulation disorder + what can I do at home? There are many causes, which can include weak phonological awareness, history of ear infections, and/or motor planning challenges. At home, parents can read sound-loaded stories to their children to give them models of the sound. Hearing the sound often is called auditory bombardment, and this strategy will enhance learning.
Readers: What do you like to do at home to target speech sounds and articulation?
About the Author: Melissa Goff, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the owner of Sunflower Speech & Myo Therapy, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC.
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