Many preschoolers and toddlers here in Orlando show signs of a speech impediment or disorder, that some may eventually outgrow. But it is important to ensure your child sees a professional speech therapist who is trained in identifying and addressing any types of speech delays to impediment. This can significantly lower any negative impact, emotionally, socially, and school aspects.
While children learn speech and language skills at different rates, they should reach age appropriate milestones. When normal speech is somehow disrupted, children can have a noticeable speech disorder, which does not enable them to keep pace with their peers.
Not all speech impediments are outgrown, it depends on the severity and type of disorder.
Stuttering
Stuttering is a very common speech disorder, it is also known as disfluency. There are different types of stuttering, some are more likely to outgrow. Those that are more pronounced are more difficult to outgrow and would benefit from speech therapy.
Lisps
There are different types of lisps, interdental, dentalized, lateral, and palatal. Within these palatal and lateral lisps are less likely for a child to grow out of, speech therapy will be beneficial. Especially, if they still have the lisps when they start school
Articulation
This includes how we put sounds together to form words, the physical ability to move the palate, jaw, lips, and tongue. For instance, a child may change a sound, add sounds, leave sounds out or substitute one sound for another. ASHA has an example, “your child may make a “w” sound for a “r” and say “wabbit” for “rabbit.” She may leave sounds out of words, such as “nana” for “banana.””
A speech therapist will focus on sound patterns or how specific speech sounds are being produced. Increasing articulation as well as the overall speech intelligibility.
Expressive language
Expressive language is the ability to express one’s self using written or spoken language, in a way that is understandable. Typically a child with expressive language disorder has trouble communicating their feelings and thoughts.
A child may have a difficult time forming connections between words and what they represent. They may have issues increasing their vocabulary, naming common objects, linking several thoughts together, and only use simple sentences.
Children are all unique, some start talking at an early age and comprehend everything said to them. While others may not talk quite so much or have a difficult time listening. But if you suspect your child may have a speech or language disorder, take the first step. Contact First Words Speech Therapy.
Our therapists have extensive clinical experience and training. Our effective holistic approach takes place in your child’s natural environment, providing the highest quality of care.
