Nasal Speech: Phoneme Specific Errors

Question

Answer

If only the /b/ and /p/ sounds are affected, then this child is probably exhibiting phoneme specific errors. Phoneme specific errors occur in the presence of an intact mechanism, are learned, and can be managed with programs designed to achieve oral/nasal balance. A few available programs with activities for dealing with oral/nasal balance with intact mechanisms are listed below. If on the other hand this child exhibits difficulty with many speech sounds including nasal emission and distortion of the /s/ and "sh" sounds, then it is strongly suggested that this child receive further evaluation for adequate velopharyngeal closure, preferably by a cleft palate team. If oral inspection reveals that her velum is intact, it may be that she has a deep pharynx or a short velum resulting in inadequate velopharyngeal closure. No behavioral therapy will improve resonance if the child has a mechanism that is not achieving closure.

A simple instrument and some programs with activities for working on oral/nasal balance with an intact mechanism include:

Andrews, Moya. Using Your Best Voice: Production activities for children. Super Duper Publications #PE-9878 $51.00

Ray, Beverly & Baker, Barbara. Hypernasality Modification Program: A systematic approach. Pro-Ed #9859 $ 32.00

See-Scape (an inexpensive instrument that detects nasal emission of air during speech) by Pro-Ed # 2166: See-Scape $95.00; # 2167: Replacement Kit $26.00

Dr. Harmon is an Associate Professor on the graduate faculty at Mississippi University for Women. She currently teaches graduate courses in Fluency Disorders, Phonological and Articulatory Disorders, and Voice Disorders. Dr. Harmon has been an invited speaker in the area of stuttering therapy with state and regional associations and with Northern Speech Services across the country.