Articulation Generalization Tips

The generalization phase of articulation therapy can be tricky to say the least!

SLPs must move a new speech motor pattern to connected speech that generalizes outside the therapy room. It isn't easy!

However, I have my top 5 articulation generalization tips to help this process along!

1. Word of the Week

I'm starting off with my all time favorite tip! Starting as soon as possible, I have clients work on "word of the week."

At the end of a session, I brainstorm with the parents and child one or two words the child says frequently throughout the week that has their target sound.

How To

Find words that the child uses to "request" during the day such as "gold fish," "snack," or "video games."
When the child requests for their desired item, they have to use their correct sound before receiving the item.

Tips

Focus on only one word so that it is manageable for parents/children.
Only do this when the child CAN somewhat easily say their sound within a word correctly given known cues if needed.
Pick words that the child uses frequently so they naturally come up throughout the week.

If needed, I use the sheet below to write down the word(s), tips on how to practice, and any cues that may be needed. This home practice is as functional/natural as it gets!

Members, click on the image to grab the worksheet

2. Silly Sentences

I love this one and it is very easy to do. Using at least 2 words that have a child's target sound, make a silly sentence. That's it!

How To

Get out flashcards or a flashcard worksheet.
Have the child pick at least 2 words and create a silly sentence.
By adding 2 words and a language demand, the child will start to "solidify" their new speech pattern.

Tips

I love to use Cariboo Card worksheets either in print or no-print form for this "game" since there are 15 pictures on one page.
Have the child cross out the words they use as they create sentences. This visual really motivates them to continue with the task.
If you challenge each other to make silly sentences, kids really enjoy it!

You can use the materials below (members click on image) or use anything you already have!

3. Games Galore

This is an obvious and popular one! Play games that incorporate the child's articulation goals.

How To

When first starting out, pick a word that can be incorporated into a game.
Example: If you are working on S-blends, have the child say "spin" before spinning a spinner in a game.
One the child progress, up it to the phrase level with "my turn to spin" or "spin the spinner."
Once the child can say their sound correctly within a set phrase, challenge the child to say their sound correctly throughout an entire turn in all S-blend words.

Tips

Let the children pick their game! I let my clients pick whatever game they want, and I quickly adapt the game to fit their sounds.
This way they feel in control and are motivated to play.
If I can't figure out a carrier phrase or word, I pull up no-print flashcards to use before taking a turn.

4. Reading

For my older children, reading during games has been a game changer!

The connection with articulation and print has really helped some children progress/generalize their sounds to connected speech.

My adorable children just made two, brand-new "would you rather?" games to incorporate reading and articulation practice. They would LOVE feedback on the Minecraft game, haha.

Almost every card has common articulation sounds for older children: /r/, /l/. "th," /s/, "sh" and "ch."

How To

Open the "would you rather?" game
Have the child read the card using their correct sounds
Challenge the child to answer the question using their correct sounds!
You can use these games to target grammar and vocabulary too!

Tips

This is a tough one and should be used only when your clients are ready.
If your students can't read, read the question to them and have them answer using their correct sounds.
This game is naturally motivating and fun!

Members, click on the images below to start playing!

5. High-Frequency Words

Many times, articulation flashcards are only nouns and may not even be words that a child frequently says. To start practicing words a student might actually say once they leave the room, incorporate high-frequency words.

This is key for generalization!

How To

As part of the membership site, I have two options for high-frequency words sorted by articulation sounds.
The black and white small flashcards cards (Cariboo) are all high-frequency! You can use them for any game you need!
The black and white leveled flashcards are great for home practice and are all high-frequency as well!
Click images below to grab them (members)