Speech disorders

Alternative names:

articulation deficiency; dysfluency; voice disorders

Treatment:

The best treatment is prevention and early intervention by a speech pathologist. Speech training is an involved and time consuming endeavor that can have profound results with consistent treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis depends on the etiology of the disorder, usually, speech can be improved with speech therapy. Prognosis improves with early intervention.

Complications:

• psycho-social problems associated with ineffective communication

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child's speech is not reaching the standard landmarks, if you suspect your child is in a high risk group, or your child is showing other signs of a speech disorder.