Speech Sound Disorder

About Speech Sound Disorder

Speech sound disorder is a communication disorder in which a child has persistent difficulty producing speech sounds, which interferes with how easily others understand their speech or prevents verbal communication of messages. It can involve difficulty with the motor production of sounds or with learning the sound system of the language, so that sounds are substituted, left out or distorted beyond what is expected for the age of the child. Onset is in early development, and the difficulties are not caused by congenital or acquired conditions such as cleft palate, hearing loss or brain injury. Many young children make sound errors as part of normal development, so the diagnosis depends on the pattern persisting beyond the expected age. Speech sound disorder can affect social interaction, school participation and later literacy skills. It is a common reason for referral to speech and language therapy, which is the main and usually effective form of support, often with practice involving families.