Rip, Rug, Run: Speech Therapy Exercises for Remediation of the R Sound

Current estimates suggest that approximately 5% of American children aged 3 to 17 are living with a speech disorder of some kind. While there are many different types of speech disorders, speech sound disorders tend to be the most prevalent in school-aged children. A speech sound disorder affects one’s ability to produce certain speech sounds. 

Speech sound disorders are classified into two categories: articulation and phonological disorders. An articulation disorder makes it difficult for an individual to learn to physically produce certain speech sounds, which are known as phonemes. Articulation disorders affect the movement and placement of the articulators (jaw, lips, tongue, teeth, and hard palate.) Phonological disorders affect the ability to learn language sound systems and differentiate between sounds and their meanings. 

One of the most commonly identified speech sound disorders is an articulation disorder that affects the ability to properly produce an “r” sound. Many children struggle to produce this sound from an early age, and in most cases, they will master it by the time they are school-aged. In some cases, however, this problem persists as the child grows and develops. Speech therapy offers specialized support and guidance for children with speech sound disorders and is considered the best resource to help individuals overcome their communication challenges. 

If your child is struggling with the “r” sound or simply needs more support in the development of their communication skills, don’t wait to get started with speech therapy. Connect with us by scheduling your free introductory call today! 

What is the R Sound in Speech Disorder? 

The “R” sound occurs very frequently in spoken English, and part of what makes it challenging to master is the fact that there are so many variations in the pronunciation of the letter. The location of the “r” within the word influences how it should sound and be pronounced, for example: 

• “R” as in “R-un”
• “RL” as in “pea-RL”
• “IRE” as in “tI-RE”
• “AR” as in “sc-AR”
• “AIR” as in “st-AIR”
• “ER” as in “broth-ER”
• “EAR” as in “f-EAR”
• “OR” as in “flo-OR”

These are just a few of the more than 32 variations (known as allophones)of the “R” sound. The many distinct variations of this speech sound make it extra challenging for children to learn and master each sound in connection with the other letters. Each variation presents a challenge as they all require various placements of the articulators to produce. 

When Should a Child Be Able to Say the “R” Sound?

Because of the difficulties related to the production of the “R” sound, it is typically the last letter sound that a child learns to produce correctly. Most children will begin to practice the “R” sound around the age of 2 to 2 and a half and will have it mastered by the time they reach the age of six, with some children perfecting it as late as their 7th birthday. This is why speech sound disorders often go undiagnosed in children until they reach the age of 7 or 8. 

If you are concerned that your child is still working on their “R” sound and think they might benefit from some extra support, connecting with a qualified speech and language pathologist is an important step. With a nationwide network of experienced and specialized speech therapists, Great Speech is the best resource for anyone wanting to improve their communication skills. Get started by scheduling your free introductory call today! 

What is a Speech Impediment that Starts with an “R”?

Difficulty or inability to properly produce the “R” sound is called rhotacism, which is an articulation disorder. Speech sound disorders such as rhotacism are caused by improper placement, movement, or tension in the tongue when attempting to produce the sound. Producing the “R” sound requires an up and backward movement which can be difficult for children. This is why they often produce a “w” instead, as children tend to use their lips more when speaking. 

How to Fix the “R” Sound in Speech? 

Helping your child to fix or modify their “r” sound should begin by identifying simple words that contain the targeted sound. If your child is able to produce the “r” sound in certain words but not others, use the words they can say correctly as a warm-up exercise. In order to master a certain sound, it must be repeated many times to be consistently produced correctly. Repetition is crucial when working to overcome a speech sound disorder. 

It is also important to work on one variation of the “R” sound at once. For instance, you can begin by working on the “ar” sound, such as it appears in the word “scar,” before progressing on to another sound variation. 

If the “R” sound is coming out more like a “W” sound, have your child look in the mirror and observe the placement of their lips, tongue, teeth, and jaw. The lips shouldn’t take on a rounded shape when saying “R”; instead, they should be slightly apart and the teeth lightly together. The movement of the tongue should involve the tongue flattening out at the back of the mouth with the edges toward the upper part of the mouth and top teeth. Some individuals find it easier to produce the sound with the tip of their tongue facing downward. Using these visual cues can be incredibly helpful for your child, as in many cases, they simply don’t know how to properly move and place their articulators.  

When Is Speech Therapy Necessary for Rhotacism?

While it is possible to work on and practice the “R” sound at home, speech therapy offers the best outcome for individuals of any age who want to overcome a speech sound disorder. Speech and language pathologists are experts at helping individuals improve the clarity of their speech by focusing on articulation and phonology. They provide tailored treatment plans and ongoing support, making it possible for you or your child to reach speech goals and communicate with confidence. If you want to learn more about how speech therapy might benefit you or a loved one, schedule your free introductory call today!