My son was 7 years old, beginning 2nd grade, an avid reader and having difficulties with his speech.  He struggled with both the “r” and the “s” sounds.  I had read many different recommendations and comments on what to do or not to do, but at some point along the way I ran across the “Help Me Talk Right” books by Mirla Raz, M.Ed.  I debated whether to see if he would outgrow his speech problems or to begin helping him.  After reviewing the Help Me Talk Right website, I decided to check it out.  I ended up finding a copy of the “r” sound book on ebay, so we scheduled the lessons along with our 2nd grade curriculum & began that August.  The lessons began with tongue positioning and were short and fun.  We did them twice a week and by the time we were half way through the book, his “r” sound was corrected.  Completely!  He was so happy with his accomplishment and I was very pleased with the resource!  We completed the entire book as recommended and I have to say that with all of the practice required, his “s” sound was somehow corrected too!

Mirla G. Raz,M.Ed. is a licensed speech pathologist and has “worked extensively with children who have speech and language problems.  The program she presents in Help Me Talk Right is one she has developed and perfected over many years.  Ms. Raz has used this program in the public school systems, UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, and in her private practice.”

I highly recommend this resource and I strongly suggest following  Ms. Raz’s instructions to be sure you’re on the right path.  Although I realize that children have different degrees of speech problems, and my child’s may have been on the slighter end, if your child is struggling, you may want to give these books a try.  Also, “your local public school should have a speech pathologist on staff…Her consultation and help should be free of charge.”  So you may want to call and set up an appointment for help in identifying “which sounds the child does not say correctly, and determine which sound should be corrected first.”

If you hadn’t noticed, each child is different and the timing depends on the child.  So, don’t push, and if he’s not ready, you may want to hold off.  I’m not an expert, but this has worked for us.  And remember to keep it fun as we conquer another mountain on our homeschooling journey!