What is normal in the development of speech (articulation) skills?
There is a wide rage in the development of various skills. Children in
kindergarden commonly misarticulate one or two sounds. At this age we look
for the ability to be understood by others. By second to third grade speech
should be adult like with the possibility of /r/ difficulties, which can time
to develop.
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What does normal language development mean?
Children who are developing language normally can understand and use
vocabulary appropriate to their age and can speak in full sentences by 3-4
years of age. Understanding of questions and directions is also part of
normal language development and difficulties in this area may affect
academics as a child progresses through school.
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What do I do if I think my child is stuttering?
Children typically go through periods of "normal disfluency" when they are
learning to talk. This can sound like stuttering but it usually consists of
repetitions of words or phrases. Children will usually outgrow these
behaviors. If they have not outgrown the behaviors by 4-5 years or if any
struggle is noted (blocking on souds, body movements when talking), the child
should be referred for testing. Any awareness on the part of the child is a
red flag and should be taken seriously since stuttering can cause a child
emotional upsets.
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How can I help my child at home?
All children should be talked to/interacted with throughout their day to
build their language skills. Language develops through a desire/need to
communicate with others. This is accomplished through discussions regarding
the child's day, experiences outside the home environment and limited time
spent watching TV/playing video and computer games. Of course, reading to a
child is highly recommended and is an excellent activity for improving
speech/language/literacy skills.
Children with diagnosed speech/language difficulties will also benefit from
proper adult models. So, if a child can not produce "L" for example and the
child says, That's a Wion, the parent would say, Yes, that's a Lion.
Children usually hate to be corrected and made to repeat things, although if
it is presented as a fun activity some may enjoy imitating your sounds/words.
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What if I have questions regarding my child's development?
Please give me a call at school to discuss your child and/or to request a
speech/language screening! You may also want to discuss your child's skills
with your family doctor. For more information visit http://www.asha.org/
