Mastering Speech Sounds: Understanding Articulation and Phonology in Children

As a Speech-Language Pathologist based in Murrieta, California, one of the most common questions I hear from parents is:"Is it normal that my child still can't say certain sounds?"

It’s a great question—and the answer often depends on whether we’re talking about articulation or phonology. If your child has trouble being understood or frequently mispronounces words, you're not alone!

Let’s break down the difference between articulation and phonological processes, and what it means to master speech sounds as your child grows.

🎯 What Is Articulation?

Articulation refers to how we physically produce speech sounds using our lips, tongue, teeth, and jaw. An articulation disorder happens when a child has difficulty forming specific sounds correctly. For example:

• Saying “wed” instead of “red” (difficulty with the /r/ sound)

• Saying “thoap” instead of “soap” (difficulty with /s/)

These errors typically involve one or two specific sounds and may be due to motor planning challenges or sound placement errors.

🧠 What Is a Phonological Process?

Phonology is about the patterns of sounds a child uses. A phonological disorder occurs when a child continues to use speech patterns that are expected at a younger age, beyond when they should fade.

Some common phonological processes include:

• Gliding: saying “wabbit” for “rabbit”

• Cluster Reduction: saying “poon” instead of “spoon”

• Fronting: saying “tat” instead of “cat”

• Stopping: saying “doe” for “so”

These sound patterns are typical in toddlers but should decrease as children grow. If they persist beyond certain ages, speech therapy may be needed.

When Should Speech Sounds Be Mastered?

🚩 Signs Your Child May Need Speech Therapy

• Strangers have difficulty understanding your child after age 4

• Your child avoids speaking or gets frustrated easily

• Persistent sound errors (like lisping or trouble with /r/, /l/, or /s/)

• Use of multiple sound error patterns past age-appropriate expectations

• Speech is impacting your child’s confidence or participation in school

🗣️ Local Speech Therapy Services in Murrieta, California

At Virtual Speech Solutions, we offer comprehensive, individualized speech therapy services for articulation and phonological delays. We work with families in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, and surrounding areas, and provide:

• In-person speech therapy in our Murrieta clinic

• Virtual speech therapy for busy families or remote learners

• Hybrid therapy options for flexibility and convenience

Our sessions are play-based, engaging, and always personalized to your child’s needs.

💬 Final Thoughts

If your child is still struggling with speech clarity or sound errors, don’t wait—early intervention makes a big difference. Whether you're local to Murrieta or the surrounding Inland Empire, we’re here to support your child’s communication journey.

📞 Contact Virtual Speech Solutions in Murrieta, CA today to schedule a speech evaluation or learn more about our articulation and phonology services.