Speech Sound Disorder Support in Des Moines Metro & North Liberty
WHAT IS A SPEECH SOUND DISORDER?
A speech sound disorder is any difficulty with the production of sounds in speech. Speech sound disorders can occur for various reasons, such as hearing loss, cleft lip or palate, or neurologic reasons. However, many children demonstrate speech sound disorders without the above-mentioned causes. There are three common distinctions SLPs can make between speech-sound disorders, and they are all treated in different ways. (ASHA 2022)
What Are Examples Of Speech Sound Disorders?
Articulation Disorder
An articulation disorder focuses on errors in the production of individual speech sounds.
Examples:
A “lisp” due to a child having their tongue between their teeth when making a /s/ sound (‘thoup’ for “soup”)
Inability to produce sounds (saying “weef” for “leaf) because the child has difficulties lifting their tongue
Phonological Disorder
A phonological disorder occurs when a child uses patterns of sound errors. These error patterns are usually predictable, rule-based errors that affect more than one sound. Children simplify complex words with phonological processes.
Example:
If a child makes errors with a group of sounds, such as fricatives, or sounds where lots of air comes out of the mouth (e.g., /s, z, f, v/). The child’s error pattern will be similar. The child may stop the airflow (e.g., “toup” for “soup” or “pox” for “box”)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a neurological speech disorder characterized by motor planning errors with precise and consistent movements used in speech. Apraxia of speech causes delayed and irregular speech development. Children with CAS might:
Say the same word a different way each time
Say short words more clearly than longer words
Avoid talking due to difficulties with production
Speech Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
What age should a child start talking clearly?
Children typically begin saying simple words around 12–24 months, though their speech may be hard to understand at first, which is normal. By about 18 months, most children say 20–50 words in approximations, meaning the word is close enough to understand (like “ba” for “ball”). By age 3, about 75% of their speech should be understood, and by age 4, their speech should be mostly clear and include multi-word phrases.
What are the signs my child needs speech therapy?
Some signs a child may benefit from speech therapy include difficulty understanding what they are saying, limited vocabulary, or trouble imitating sounds. By age 2, children typically have around 50 words and can imitate simple sounds like animal noises and basic consonants such as p, b, and m. By age 3, speech should be about 75% understandable, and by age 4, about 90% of their speech should be clear
Is it normal for a 2-year-old not to talk much?
It can be normal for some 2-year-olds to talk less than others, but we do expect them to be using words and starting to combine them. By age 2, most children have around 50 words and are beginning to use two-word phrases like “more milk” or “mommy go.” If a child isn’t meeting these milestones, it’s a good idea to have their speech and language checked.
What causes speech delays in children?
Speech delays can happen for many different reasons. Sometimes it’s related to hearing difficulties, limited exposure to language, or differences in how a child’s brain processes speech and language. In other cases, it may be part of a broader developmental delay—but often, with early support, children make great progress.
Can speech delay fix itself without therapy?
Some children with mild delays may catch up on their own, but it’s difficult to predict which children will and which won’t. Because of that uncertainty, it’s usually best to have a child evaluated early. Early support can help prevent bigger challenges later on
How long does speech therapy usually take?
The length of speech therapy can vary depending on the child and their specific needs. Some children may only need a few months of support, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy. Progress depends on factors like the type of delay, consistency, and practice at home.
What happens during a speech therapy evaluation?
A speech therapy evaluation is a play-based assessment where we look at how your child communicates. We observe their speech sounds, understanding of language, and how they use words to interact. It’s designed to be engaging and helps us determine if support is needed.
What is the difference between speech delay and language delay?
Speech refers to how we produce sounds to form words—this includes articulation, voice, and fluency. Language is the system we use to understand and express ideas, including vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. In simple terms, speech is how we say words, while language is what the words mean and how we use them to communicate.
How can I help my child talk more at home?
The best way to help your child talk more is to talk with them throughout the day. Narrate what you’re doing, expand on what they say, and create opportunities for them to use words. Simple, consistent interaction can make a big difference.
At what age should a child be able to pronounce sounds correctly?
Understanding when children typically develop speech sounds can help you identify if your child is on track:
- Ages 2–3: Early sounds begin to emerge, including /p, b, m, h, w/
- Ages 3–4: Children often acquire additional sounds like /k, g, d, n, f, y/
- Ages 4–5: More complex sounds develop, including /t, ng, r, l/
- Ages 5–6: Later-developing sounds are mastered, such as /s, z, sh, ch, j, v/
- Ages 6–7: Advanced sounds, including /th/ (voiced and voiceless) and /zh/, are typically acquired
Does speech therapy help reading skills later?
Yes—speech therapy can support reading skills later on. Strong speech and language skills are the foundation for learning to read, especially when it comes to understanding sounds and words. Early support can help prevent future difficulties with reading and learning.
Is speech therapy covered by insurance?
Speech therapy is often covered by insurance, but coverage depends on your specific plan. Many plans will cover therapy if it is considered medically necessary, though there may be limits or requirements. At Enrichment, we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, and we can help you understand your benefits.
How Can ETLC Help?
We utilize evidence-based therapy approaches based on the type of speech sound disorder each child has and their specific needs. We provide direct skill-building instruction to help improve sound errors with immediate feedback and opportunities for repetition and practice. Therapists at ETLC have extensive speech production knowledge, phonologically based strategies, and specific training on motor-based approaches.
How Do I Get Started?
1. Schedule a consultation
2. Receive an individualized plan
3. Watch your child thrive
Why Choose ETLC?
At Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center, we believe every child deserves to thrive with their communication and academic skills, and we know you want that too. Our specialists are trained in many research-based programs and strategies to create a plan specific to your child and their unique learning style. Together, we can help your child feel confident and successful!