When the child exchanges the R for L in words like "wanted", which ends up being "cheated", it may be the case of a disorder called dyslalia. This disorder is characterized by the difficulty of speaking some sounds, being characterized by errors in the pronunciation or difficulty of articulating words, as was the character Cholula of the comic strip Turma da Mônica.
Pronounced words in the wrong way is more common in boys and is normal until the age of 4, but if the problem persists after this age, one should seek the pediatrician, otorhinolaryngologist or speech-language pathologist to investigate the problem and start treatment, which should always include speech therapy sessions to improve speech, perception and articulation of sounds.
Types and Causes
The dislalia can be caused can be of 4 types, according to the cause of the problem:
- Evolutionary: it is considered normal in children and is progressively corrected in its development;
- Functional: when they happen to substitute one letter for another when speaking, as with Chives, or to add or distort the sound;
- Audiogenic: when the individual is deaf and can not repeat the sound;
- Organic: when there is a brain injury that prevents correct speech or when there are changes in the structure of the mouth or tongue that make speech difficult.
It is important to remember that one should not talk wrong with the child or find it handsome and encourage him or her to mispronounce words, for such attitudes can stimulate the onset of dyslalia.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of dyslalia is done by the pediatrician or otorhinolaryngologist, who will evaluate the baby's speech and check for changes in the child's mouth, hearing or brain, and may ask for tests such as hearing tests and psychological tests.
It is important to make the diagnosis so that the dyslalia is treated properly, as it can lead to learning problems and school backwardness.
How to treat
Treatment is done according to the cause of the problem, but usually includes treatment with Speech Therapy sessions to improve speech, develop language-facilitating techniques, perception and interpretation of sounds, and stimulate phrasing ability.
In addition, the self-confidence and personal relationship of the child with the family should also be encouraged, as the problem often arises after the birth of a younger brother as a way to become small again and receive more attention from the parents.
In cases where neurological problems have been found, treatment should also include psychotherapy, and hearing problems may require the use of hearing aids.
Learn more about children's speech problems at:
- Why does not my child like to talk?
- Jokes to stimulate the baby to speak
