- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Paige Brooks Curry M.A., CCC/SLP | ||
 |
Should a 4-year-old be tested if people cannot understand him?
It is typical for a child age 4 to have a few errors in his speech, however he should be fully understood by strangers. I would suggest you contact your local school board or speech pathology clinic for an evaluation. An assessment on a child age 4 would consist of a hearing screening to rule out a hearing loss as the cause of the speech problem. If your child fails the screening, he should be referred to an audiologist for a full audiological evaluation. The speech pathologist will then administer a speech/articulation test to listen to how your child pronounces each sound. A language battery should be completed also to assess your child's receptive and expressive language skills. These tests will consist of having your child look at pictures, name things and follow some directions. Most children think of these tests as "games" and it sounds like he will have no problem participating. Good luck!
Related Expert Q&A
- I sometimes feel guilty when I just let my children play and do not join in. Should I always participate in their playtime?
- Is TV really that bad for children? Should I really be concerned?
- My kids are couch potatoes. All they want to do is watch TV. What can I do?
- What should I do about my child's lisp?
- I have twins who need a little push in the self-confidence department. Any suggestions?
More Answers by this Expert
- My 3-year-old stutters when saying "I" and "you." Should I be concerned?
- My daughter is about to start kindergarten, but has trouble being understood by people when she talks. What can I do to help her?
- Could my 3-year-old's picking eating habits and drooling be related to his speech delays?
- Should a 4-year-old be tested if people cannot understand him?
- My daughter is about to start kindergarten, but has trouble being understood by people when she talks. What can I do to help her?