What is articulation?

Articulation is the ability to make speech sounds clearly. Children learn correct sound production by listening and imitating appropriate speech role models. Articulation develops gradually over a period of 8 years.

When should I be concerned about my child’s articulation?

Under the age of 3, it is common for children to make quite a few sound errors and substitutions.  By age 3, a child should be using at least 200 words, using 3-5 word phrases and be understood at least 80% of the time.  By age 4, a child should be 100% intelligible even if they continue to have some articulation errors.  Sounds which are “later developing” include “sh”, “ch” “j” and “th”.  Sometimes the “s” and “r” sounds are more difficult to remediate and require more speech therapy.

What sounds do children learn to produce first and in what order?

Most children are able to produce the “bilabial” sounds (made with the lips) of “b”, “p” “m”and “w”. They may also produce sounds such as “d”, “t”, and “n” early on as well.  Child acquire sounds developmentally and by age 8 should have mastered all of the sounds.

What causes an articulation disorder?

Although the cause is often unknown, the following are may cause an articulation disorder:

• Hearing loss
• Illness
• Developmental Disorder (ie Autism)
• Neurological Disorder (ie Cerebral Palsy)
• Genetic Disorder (ie Down Syndrome)

How do you treat an articulation disorder?

If you feel that your child is in need a speech evaluation, it is vital to seek treatment from an ASHA (American Speech Hearing Association) Certified provider who will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and provide services as needed.