Dealing with speech problems
May 28, 2006
<b>TEACHER’S DESK</b><br>Speech and language disorders are the major problems in the communication development of a child. The cause is unknown, but some of the commonly suggested causes include hearing loss, brain injury, drug abuse, physical impairments such as cleft lip or palate, vocal misuse
Speech and language disorders are the major problems in the communication development of a child. The cause is unknown, but some of the commonly suggested causes include hearing loss, brain injury, drug abuse, physical impairments such as cleft lip or palate, vocal misuse and mental retardation.
A child’s communication will be considered problematic when the child is noticeably behind his or her peers in the acquisition of speech or language skills.
Common symptoms include voice quality, interruption in the flow of speech for instance stammering, improper use of words, reduced vocabulary and the inability to follow instructions.
The following could be used to help pupils realise their potential.
l Use gestures and repetition for emphasis, create an environment where children are free to ask for clarification, find a friend for the child with speech difficulties – often children communicate better through each other.
l Teach vocabulary by using examples and demonstration.
l When setting questions, keep instructions simple.
l Play games that depict self correction. In case a child makes a mistake - these will boost the child’s confidence and sense of self worth.
l Always remember to praise the child every time they make an effort to improve. For example, “You read well today, or you recited that poem very clearly.†This will help the child to keep trying.
Deborah Mbuga
mutumbad@yahoo.com.
0712-467567
A child’s communication will be considered problematic when the child is noticeably behind his or her peers in the acquisition of speech or language skills.
Common symptoms include voice quality, interruption in the flow of speech for instance stammering, improper use of words, reduced vocabulary and the inability to follow instructions.
The following could be used to help pupils realise their potential.
l Use gestures and repetition for emphasis, create an environment where children are free to ask for clarification, find a friend for the child with speech difficulties – often children communicate better through each other.
l Teach vocabulary by using examples and demonstration.
l When setting questions, keep instructions simple.
l Play games that depict self correction. In case a child makes a mistake - these will boost the child’s confidence and sense of self worth.
l Always remember to praise the child every time they make an effort to improve. For example, “You read well today, or you recited that poem very clearly.†This will help the child to keep trying.
Deborah Mbuga
mutumbad@yahoo.com.
0712-467567