Hi everyone! I am new to Mumsnet and this is my first post. I am a speech and language therapist and I enjoy giving advice and support on communication when I can. A friend mentioned that Mumsnet would be a great place to share information so here goes. Below are some great tips to develop speech production.
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Repeat the word back with the correct production: For example, if your child says "the dod is hungry" you would simply say "yes, the dog is hungry".
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Be specific in your feedback: If a child does spontaneously use a sound that he/she has been struggling with, give specific feedback about how that sound was made. For example, if he/she produces a /k/ sound say "well done, you used a /k/ sound which is made at the back of your mouth".
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Let your child see how sounds are made: It is important that children can see your mouth when they are developing their sounds. It will be very beneficial to see how the mouth is shaped and where the tongue positions itself.
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Use cued articulation: This is a visual prompt to show how and where sounds are made in the mouth. Below is a great link to show how to use cued articulation.
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Be positive and encourage: It is not true that 'children are just being lazy'. Do not ask your child to repeat a word correctly. If they are having difficulty producing a sound, it is not because they aren't trying. Be supportive and incorporate the strategies above.
If anyone wants more information on how you can support any aspect of speech, language or communication you can find more information on: www.chrisspeechtherapy.co.uk
or on my facebook page www.facebook.com/ChrisHargreavesspeechtherapy/
Speak soon and if anyone has questions please do ask.
Chris.