How to Prevent Speech Disorders

While the cause of a speech disorder is unknown in many cases, there are some known causes that can be prevented. Speech disorders are classified as a difficulty or inability associated with fluency, voice, and/or quality of speech. Whether preventable, or from unknown causes, speech disorders should be addressed immediately for the best chance of reversal or improvement. For many children, speech therapy can correct their disorder. Here's how to prevent speech disorders from occurring in children.

Instructions

• 1

  Ensure that infants are tested at birth for impaired hearing and deafness. Inability to hear correctly is the cause of many children's delayed speech and speech disorders.

• 2

  Screen infants for cleft palate and mouth and nasal abnormalities at birth. Not only does a cleft impair proper feeding, it can cause speech problems as well. Any physical deformity of the mouth or nose can potentially cause speech problems, so rule these out from the beginning.

• 3

  Protect infants' and children's hearing by keeping them away from loud sounds, such as deafening music concerts, fireworks and explosions. If your child is exposed to loud sounds, have their ears tested for damage. It is important that children hear correctly in order to speak correctly.

• 4

  Make sure children are not subject to verbal abuse or physical abuse, both of which can cause speech disorders along with physical injury and emotional distress. This goes without saying, of course, but it is important for parents and caretakers to recognize signs of abuse in the child's life if they are present. For some children, abuse or verbal mistreatment is the underlying cause of their speech disorders.

• 5

  Discuss any speech problems or delayed speech with a pediatrician as soon as they are apparent. The sooner a speech disorder is addressed and therapy begins (if indicated), the better the outcome.