Articulation Disorders Program

Occasionally, children fail to develop one or more speech sounds (phonemes) when they have developed otherwise normal speech and language skills. These articulation errors call attention to a child's speech and detract from effective communication. Some children are teased or penalized for these simple articulation errors.

The most common errors are the "s", "l" and "r" sounds although other speech sounds may be involved. This type of articulation problem should not be mistaken for apraxia of speech.

The Articulation Disorders Program is designed to treat children with these isolated speech problems. Individual therapy sessions with extensive home practice drills help children understand and address their specific problem. Family involvement and practice at home is an important aspect of this program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is articulation?
Articulation involves accuracy of placement of the lips, tongue, jaw and airflow for speech sound production. Articulation is the way sounds are formed.

What are articulation disorders?
Incorrect production of speech sounds due to difficulty with discrimination, placement, timing, direction and speed of the lips, tongue, jaw and airflow.

Did You Know?

• A 2-year-old child should be approximately 65% intelligible to the general listener.
• A 3-year-old child should be approximately 80% intelligible to the general listener.
• A 4-year-old child should be very intelligible in connected speech. Often described as talking like a "little adult."
• Approximately 50 percent of preschoolers with articulation disorders also have language disorders.
• Articulation disorders are the most common type of communication disorder.

Links

NIDCD - Silence Isn't Always Golden

NIDCD - Speech and Language: Developmental Milestones