Coarticulation: What is It and How to Include It in Treatment of Speech Sound Disorders

A disruption in coarticulatory movements is a common characteristic of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) that can significantly impact an individual’s intelligibility, especially in connected speech, making it a vital part of apraxia therapy. However, knowledge and use of coarticulatory contexts can also greatly facilitate progress for children with other speech sounds disorders. In this presentation, various coarticulatory contexts will be discussed, especially those occurring in connected speech in Standard American English. A hierarchy of how to address coarticulatory errors will be discussed, along with numerous examples. Possible goals for coarticulation will be presented. In addition, therapy activities to address coarticulation goals will be described.

Following this course, participants will be able to:

1. Name 3 coarticulatory contexts that occur within and between words in Standard American English.
2. List two possible goals to address coarticulation.
3. Name 2 activities that can be used to address coarticulation.
4. Name 2 facilitative contexts for obtaining production of new phonemes.

This course meets the requirement for Professional Development hours towards your ASHA renewal since it is approved by TSHA! You can count these hours towards ASHA renewal when you submit your Compliance Form.