The final two developmental phonological processes in toddler speech are cluster reduction and weak syllable deletion.
What’s Cluster Reduction?
Cluster reduction occurs when all or some of a cluster (clusters are also called blends) is reduced or omitted. Clusters include S, L R, blends. Clusters are 2 consonant sounds that side by side but both sounds are produced. For example, in st – S & T.
There are some phonemes that look like clusters, but they aren’t. They are transcribed and produced as individual phonemes versus individual sounds like in clusters. Examples of these: sh, ch, th.
Examples of cluster reduction are: pant for plant, sipe for stripe, tripe for stripe, or bet for best
What’s Weak Syllable Deletion?
Weak syllable deletion occurs when the unstressed or “weak” syllable is omitted.
Errors in Word Structure
Cluster Reduction and Weak Syllable Deletion are both errors in the structures of words. These errors do not become a “concern” so to speak until they continue to appear beyond 4 years old or if a toddler has difficulty producing any word with multiple syllables. We will get into that later- but it’s just something to keep in mind!
If you’re looking for some activities to get you started this population- check out my phonology bundle! It’s filled with activities designed to engage toddlers including matching games, interactive velcro books, coloring pages, phonology cards, and more. Be sure to check it out- my littles LOVE the velcro books and matching games. They’re always a hit and great at keeping them engaged in activities while practicing those word-building skills!
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