Phonology refers to the rules that govern the sound system of a language, including how speech sounds are organized, combined, and used for meaningful communication (ASHA, 2023a). A phonological disorder occurs when a child uses predictable patterns of sound errors that affect multiple sounds or classes of sounds, even if they can say individual sounds correctly in other contexts.

Examples of phonological patterns include:

• Fronting – “tat” for “cat”
• Stopping – “tun” for “sun”
• Final consonant deletion – “ca” for “cat”
• Cluster reduction – “pane” for “plane”
• Assimilation – “gog” for “dog”

Phonological disorders are not due to problems with physical sound production but rather with how sounds are used and understood within the language. These patterns are typically developmental but may persist beyond the expected age, reducing speech intelligibility and affecting phonemic awareness and early literacy skills (ASHA, 2023a).

Bjorem Speech® offers a wide range of phonology-based products to help children build stronger sound systems. Our tools use evidence-based approaches like Minimal Pairs, Cycles Intervention, and Complexity to make learning interactive, functional, and fun.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your intervention, you’ll find resources to meet children where they are, and move them forward.