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The “R” sound is one of the most common sounds in English, but can also be one of the hardest to produce. Of the general population, 1-2% of people continue to have some articulation difficulties as teens and adults with more than half of them struggling with “R” (Flipsen, 2015). Additionally about 25% of children with a history of speech delay as preschoolers continue to have trouble with “R” between 9 and 12 years of age (Shriberg, 2009).
Why is “R” so difficult?
The "R" sound is notoriously difficult to produce for good reason. Unlike other speech sounds, the "R" doesn’t have a single, straightforward tongue position and can be made in multiple ways. Additionally, the "R" sound changes depending on its position in a word and the surrounding sounds, adding another layer of difficulty.
A successful “R” requires a complex movement that involves precise coordination and subtle adjustments of various parts of the tongue. The base of the tongue must be pulled back, the back of the tongue must be lowered, the front of the tongue must be lifted, the sides must be elevated, and the middle of the tongue must be depressed. It’s no wonder so many people have trouble with “R”!
Is it too late to get the “R”?
No matter if your child is a teenager or if you are an adult seeking help, difficulty with “R” can be overcome at any age. Our clients often come to Latitude Speech Therapy after years of unsuccessful practice, usually because they did not receive the right kind of instruction or the correct intensity to make the leap. With our customized R Program, we have helped numerous clients produce a clear “R” for the first time!
Latitude offers evaluations, consultations, and direct services in English, Russian, and Spanish.
Early childhood is a critical time in your child's development. Let's create a strong foundation together to help your child excel!
With our innovative and evidenced-based methods, we strive to provide you with the highest quality personalized care that you deserve. We offer a combination of flexible options to fit your family’s busy schedule.
The perfect mix for geographically distant clients who prefer online services and benefit from in-person check-ins.
A hybrid approach is recommended for clients who generally do well with online therapy but need periodic hands-on guidance for articulatory placement.
