Gliding in Speech Therapy: How to Teach it Effectively
Tips on how to correct gliding in speech therapy using simple and fun methods and activities for faster progress.
What is Gliding in Speech Therapy?
When your child replaces the sounds /r/ and /l/ with sounds of /w/ or /j/, it is known as gliding. For example, if they say “wabbit” instead of “rabbit” and “yook” instead of “look”. It sometimes occurs in toddlers, but usually decreases as they grow older. If it continues past 6 or 7 years, you should consult a speech therapist.
Steps to Overcome Gliding in Speech Therapy
1. Auditory Discrimination
You should help the child hear the difference between the different glides and correct words. Make them listen to word pairs such as “rabbit” and “wabbit” and then ask if those sound the same or different.
2. Sound Placement Cues
Teach them where the tongue goes for each sound. Like for /r/, the tongue is lifted toward the back of the mouth, and for /l/, the tip of the tongue touches just behind the teeth (alveolar ridge)
3 . Visual and Tactile Cues
You can show the child their mouth movement using a mirror. You can also use a tongue depressor or finger tap to show where the tongue should go.
4. Syllables and Words Practice
You can let the child practice simple syllables like /ra/, /ro/, /la/, /lo/, and then progress to words like ‘red’, ‘run’, ‘leaf’, ‘lamp’, etc.
5. Fun Activities for Engagement
Let the child play games like bingo and memory cards with /r/ and /l/ words, read short stories with focus words, and use interactive videos and apps with sound practice.
Quick Tips for Parents
- Read books while emphasizing /r/ and /l/ sounds
- Gently use the correct word pronunciation without forcing repetition.
- Make speech practice short and fun for around 5-10 minutes
FAQs
Q: At what age should gliding stop in children?
A: It should stop by the age of 6-7; otherwise, you should consult a speech therapist
Q: Does gliding fix itself?
A: Sometimes, but structured practice speeds up correction
Q: How long does therapy take?
A: Usually a few months, depending on the child’s age, consistency in attending sessions, and regular practice.
