Using ultrasound visual feedback to remediate velar fronting in preschool children: A pilot study

Clin Linguist Phon. 2016;30(3-5):382-97. doi: 10.3109/02699206.2015.1120345. Epub 2016 Jan 25.

Abstract

Anecdotally, velar fronting can be difficult to remediate in some children. This pilot study examined the use of ultrasound visual feedback in remediating velar fronting in typically developing children. A single-case, multiple-baseline across-subjects experimental design was used to examine acquisition, retention and generalisation of velar treatment targets. Two otherwise typically developing children (P1, aged 4;0; P3, aged 4;11) completed the study. The productions of /k/ and /ɡ/ at syllable level were targeted during treatment. P1 improved her productions of /k/ and /ɡ/ at syllable level during the treatment period and achieved correct production at word level during follow-up. P3 made no improvements in his productions of velar targets. This study suggests that ultrasound visual feedback may be an option for remediating velar fronting in some preschoolers. Further study is required.

Keywords: Children; motor learning; speech therapy; ultrasound; velar fronting.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Articulation Disorders / diagnostic imaging
  • Articulation Disorders / therapy*
  • Biofeedback, Psychology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cues
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phonetics*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Speech Therapy
  • Tongue / physiology
  • Ultrasonography*