An articulation disorder is when someone has trouble saying some words correctly. Sometimes they might mix up sounds, leave some out, or say them funny. It’s like their mouth is playing a game of telephone with their brain! But with the help of special teachers and therapists, they can learn to talk in a way that everyone can understand. They can get really good at it with practice and patience and have fun chatting with their friends and family.
How is articulation disorder diagnosed?
A speech-language pathologist can evaluate a person’s speech to determine if they have an articulation disorder, using standardized tests and observations of speech patterns.
When should I be concerned about my child's articulation?
If your child is having difficulty being understood by others, has persistent trouble with certain speech sounds, or is becoming frustrated with their communication skills, it may be worth seeking an evaluation from a speech-language pathologist.
Can adults have articulation disorder too?
Yes, while it is most commonly diagnosed in children, adults can also experience articulation disorders as a result of injury, illness, or other factors. A speech-language pathologist can help evaluate and treat articulation disorders in individuals of all ages.
An articulation disorder is a type of communication disorder that affects a person’s ability to pronounce words correctly. This condition is characterized by errors in producing speech sounds, making it difficult for individuals to be understood by others. Articulation disorders can be caused by various factors, including structural abnormalities in the mouth or tongue, hearing impairment, or developmental delays. Some common articulation errors include substituting one sound for another, omitting, or distorting sounds. Children with articulation disorders may benefit from speech therapy, which can help them learn to produce sounds correctly and improve their overall communication skills. With early intervention and support, many individuals with articulation disorders can develop effective communication skills and lead fulfilling lives.
When it comes to articulation disorders, recognizing the symptoms is crucial for early intervention. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
By being aware of these symptoms, parents can identify potential articulation disorders in their children and seek appropriate support and therapy. Goally, a tablet tool, provides apps for kids with articulation disorders. These apps include digital visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, emotional regulation, executive functioning skills, and social skills training videos, helping children build language skills and improve communication abilities.
Editor’s note: This information is not meant to diagnose or treat and should not take the place of personal consultation, as needed, with a qualified healthcare provider and/or BCBA.
This post was originally published on March 30, 2023. It was updated on July 14, 2023.
