Speech Sounds: Articulation and Phonology

Speech sound disorders encompass difficulties in the production (articulation) and use (phonology) of speech sounds. Articulation refers to how we physically produce individual sounds, while phonology relates to the patterns and rules of sound usage in a language. These

disorders can affect a child's ability to be understood by others, potentially impacting their social interactions and academic performance. For instance, a child with an articulation disorder might consistently pronounce "r" as "w" (saying "wabbit" instead of "rabbit"), or a child with a phonological disorder might simplify words by omitting certain sounds (saying "nana" for "banana").

Before initiating any intervention, we conduct a comprehensive assessment, including a thorough oromotor examination and cranial nerve evaluation. These assessments are crucial in identifying any underlying anatomical or functional issues that may contribute to speech difficulties, such as tongue tie or immature tongue movement. This thorough evaluation ensures that we develop a targeted, effective treatment plan tailored to each child's specific needs.

Speech pathologists work with children to improve their ability to produce clear, accurate speech sounds and use them correctly within words and sentences. We use a variety of engaging techniques, such as sound-specific exercises, word games, and story-telling activities, to make therapy both effective and enjoyable. In some cases, we incorporate the PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) method into our interventions. PROMPT is a tactile-kinaesthetic approach that involves using specific touch cues on a child's face and neck to guide their articulators (lips, tongue, jaw) into the correct positions for sound production. This hands-on technique can be particularly beneficial for children who struggle with motor planning for speech or who have not responded well to traditional auditory and visual cues.

Our comprehensive approach often involves breaking down the process of sound production, teaching children how to position their articulators to create specific sounds. We also focus on helping children recognise and differentiate between similar sounds. For phonological disorders, we work on patterns of sound usage, helping children understand and apply the rules of their language's sound system. Throughout the process, we collaborate closely with parents and teachers, providing strategies to reinforce proper speech sound production in everyday situations.

Useful tip: To support your child's speech sound development at home, try incorporating sound awareness games into your daily routine. For example, play "I Spy" with a focus on specific sounds ("I spy something that starts with the 's' sound"). This not only makes learning fun but also helps your child become more aware of individual sounds in words, supporting both articulation and phonological skills.