Speech sounds
Learning to produce speech sounds is a process that all children develop in a similar pattern. Depending on their age, children may say sounds differently to the way adults produce them. For example, children under 5 may say 'w' instead of 'r' (eg 'wabbit'), and this is a normal error pattern for their age group. Speech therapy is indicated when they continue to use these error substitutions beyond the usual age of error correction. It is helpful to know the typical age of acquisition of speech sounds, and the age of elimination of error processes in speech, so you know whether your child requires speech pathology intervention or not. Early intervention is always the best approach if you are unsure of what to do.
Have a look at the following chart that summarises single speech sound acquisition:-
As mentioned above, children acquire speech sounds via error patterns that are part of normally developing speech. have a look at the table below to see what these error patterns (phonological processes) are, and when they typically resolve:-
Thanks to Caroline Bowen for creating the above table (www.members.tripod.com/Caroline_Bowen).
If you have any concerns regarding your child's acquisition of speech sounds, please feel free to contact Belinda to discuss your concerns. She will determine whether an assessment and subsequent therapy is necessary.
If you have any concerns regarding your child's acquisition of speech sounds, please feel free to contact Belinda to discuss your concerns. She will determine whether an assessment and subsequent therapy is necessary.