Do you have a child who can’t produce the /r/ sound? Have they attended school speech therapy once a week for years with little success? Maybe it’s time for a change. I am here to delve into a different approach to speech sound disorders to help your child achieve that stubborn /r/.
What Are Articulation Intensives?
Think of articulation intensives as a turbo boost for your speech practice. Unlike regular speech therapy sessions that might be spread out over weeks or months, intensives pack a punch with a concentrated approach. They typically involve more frequent sessions (3-5 times/week) over a shorter period of time (4-6 weeks).
Why Go for Intensives?
Improved Articulation Outcomes
Research consistently supports the efficacy of intensive intervention in speech therapy. A systematic review by Kaipa and Peterson (2016) found “higher treatment intensity was favorable over lower treatment intensity of specific treatment technique(s) for treating childhood apraxia of speech and speech sound (phonological) disorders”. It’s kind of like immersing yourself in a new language—you get better at it faster.
Enhanced Motor Learning
Articulation involves complex motor planning and execution. According to motor learning theories, frequent practice enhances neural plasticity, which can lead to more effective skill acquisition. The concentrated practice helps clients internalize correct speech patterns more effectively than less frequent sessions.
Increased Motivation and Engagement
Intensive therapy can also boost motivation and engagement. Research by Wenke et al. (2014) found significantly higher attendance rates for those enrolled in the intensive speech therapy program compared to a traditional program. Just like how we go to the gym everyday in January and then we slowly stop going as frequently-it’s easier to stay motivated over a shorter period of time.
Who Can Benefit From an Articulation Intensive?
Articulation intensives are particularly beneficial for children who:
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Have Persistent Speech Sound Errors: Children who have made little progress in traditional speech therapy or have difficulty with carrying strategies over from week to week.
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Need Accelerated Progress: Children who have a significant milestone approaching and are looking to make significant improvements in a short period—such as starting a new academic year or participating in a school play—intensives can provide the necessary boost.
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Have Multiple Speech Sound Errors: Children with multiple goal areas can benefit from the concentrated practice and evolving speech plan rather than focusing on one sound at a time.
It Sounds Like a Big Commitment…
Yes, the word intensive can sound daunting. However, the goal of articulation intensives is to achieve those speech sounds over a short period of time. At AccessAbility Kids we provide treatment online to take out the time commitment of traveling. We also use a mix of fun and engaging activities to make practice enjoyable and effective.
Articulation intensives can be incredibly effective if you’re looking to make significant strides in a short amount of time. It’s all about focusing your efforts, getting that frequent practice, and receiving personalized guidance. So if you’re ready to change your approach to the /r/ or other speech sounds, an articulation intensive might just be what you need.
If you have any questions about speech therapy or you’re curious about whether an intensive is right for your child, schedule a free 15-minute consultation with us at AccessAbility Kids. Here’s to confident communication!
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