Speech pathologists see a huge range of children with a variety of sound disorders. However, when I work with families, I typically see the same set of words used to drill the sound made in error.
It drives me crazy!
A unique program designed for a unique child
If the child is unique, the program designed for that child should be just as unique.
Let’s get the focus on your child and how you can impact their speech clarity most. This applies to persons of any age struggling with clarity of speech.
What does your child LOVE? Make a list of what they talk about most: gaming, cheerleading, car rides, Pokémon, Cocomelon, etc.
What words or sounds do they say INCORRECTLY during these conversations? Make a word list of incorrect production: siblings’ names, friends’ names, characters, places, etc.
If they can be categorized into sounds, get them into lists (e.g., K/G: Clifford, cake, tickle, book, dog).
This is called a functional word list — words your child uses most often in everyday conversations.
The functional word list is now your focus!
Using your functional word list
Now, incorporate this word list into reading, games, household chores, etc.
Getting laser-focused on what YOUR child needs is how you move the needle and make huge gains!
“Big things have small beginnings.” ~ David (from the movie Prometheus)
If you need help with your functional word list, please reach out. Helping parents become the speech expert in their home is my gift. Come get your gift!
Photo by Craig McLachlan on Unsplash