Phonological disorder causes problems making the right sounds for letters or words. Children with this disorder make 3 types of mistakes:

Replacing one sound with another (saying “bat” instead of “cat”)

Leaving out a sound (saying “dess” for “dress”)

Adding a sound (saying “plaper” instead of “paper”)

This disorder can go away by itself by the time a child is around 8 years old. However, the earlier speech therapy is started the better. Children who start therapy before age 3 usually improve faster and do better than older children.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE?

Several kinds of problems may cause this disorder:

Problems with the roof of the mouth or the tongue, such as cleft lip and palate

Nerve problems that cause the muscles of the mouth to have trouble forming sounds

Hearing problems

Being exposed to chemicals that can affect the brain

Physical changes in parts of the brain

Parents who have speech problems have a higher risk of having children who develop speech problems. It is more common in boys than girls.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

Symptoms may include:

Not being able to speak as well as expected for your child’s age

Replacing one sound with another

Leaving out or adding extra sounds

Parents usually notice this disorder when their child is about 3 years old. Do not wait to see if a problem goes away by itself. Your child may miss many months of helpful therapy.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history and examine your child. Your child will also have hearing and vision tests. If your healthcare provider thinks your child may have a speech disorder, your child may need to see a specialist. They can do more testing and advise you about treatment. Your school district may also provide testing services for your child.