Children and Speech Defects
Age appropriate delays in speech pattern are normal and are not a concern for treatment. Speech defect patterns often run in families. If you believe that your child may have a developmental delay in speech, proper assessment is crucial. Your childs pediatrician can assist you in assessing whether your child has a speech impairment.
Although omissions in speech patterns, such as a missing or mispronounced r or p, may appear cute, they often signal a more severe situation. Quite often, these mispronunciations are indicative of speech impairment. Fortunately, solutions are readily available.
Most school districts have a professional speech therapist available to administer speech therapy to a child who has been diagnosed with a speech impediment. Private speech therapists are also available and generally charge by the half hour. Once diagnosed, speech therapy should be started immediately.
A child with speech problems may experience frustration due to the inability of others to properly understand him. It is important to the childs self-esteem that you begin therapy immediately. A trained professional generally provides therapy; however, it is crucial that someone at home reinforces the therapy.