Phonological development is an important aspect of speech development in children. Understanding the ages that sounds are typically produced in phonological development can help identify when a child may need speech therapy for articulation disorders.
The first sounds that babies make are cooing and babbling. These sounds are not specific to any language and are made by all babies. As babies grow, they begin to make more specific sounds such as "mama" and "dada." Around the age of one, babies begin to say their first words. These words are usually simple, such as “mama”, “ball" or "dog." As children get older, they begin to produce more complex speech sounds.
Around the age of two, children typically are able to produce the sounds /p, b, m, w, h/ and by the age of three, they begin producing the sounds /n, d, t, k, g, and y/. Children typically master the remaining speech sounds such as /r, l, sh, ch, s, z, j/ and consonant blends by the age of five or six.
However, some children may struggle with producing certain speech sounds. This is where speech therapy comes in. Speech therapists use a variety of strategies to help children with articulation disorders. These strategies include:
Articulation therapy: This type of therapy focuses on teaching the child specific speech sounds and how to produce them correctly. Speech therapists may use pictures, flashcards, and other visual aids to help children understand the sounds they are trying to produce.
Phonological awareness therapy: This type of therapy focuses on helping children understand the sounds of language and how they work together. Speech therapists may use games and activities to help children develop phonological awareness skills.
Oral-motor therapy: This type of therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles used for speech production. Speech therapists may use exercises and activities to help children improve their oral-motor skills.
Parent education: This type of therapy focuses on teaching parents and caregivers strategies and techniques to help their child with articulation disorders at home. Speech therapists may provide parents with exercises and activities to do with their child and provide guidance on how to communicate effectively with their child.
It is important to note that every child develops at their own pace and some children may not meet these milestones exactly. However, if your child is consistently struggling with speech sounds or their speech is not clear and easily understood by unfamiliar adults and peers, it may be appropriate to start speech therapy.
Understanding the typical development of speech sounds in children can help you identify if your child may need treatment for their articulation skills. Seeking the help of a speech therapist can help your child improve their ability to communicate, and in turn, make it easier for them to form meaningful relationships with adults and peers.
Michelle Mikviman MS CCC-SLP
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