What is cluster reduction? Cluster simplification?
Cluster reduction, or cluster simplification, is quite a common articulation error. Many children find it challenging to say certain words, so they reduce the word to make it easier; however, it’s not the right way to say it. Here are a few examples:
- speaking ‘fren’ instead of ‘friend’;
- displaying ‘pider’ instead of ‘spider’;
- saying ‘boo’ instead of ‘blue’;
- saying ‘kool’ instead of ‘school’;
- saying ‘firt’ instead of ‘first.’
It is quite common for children to do this, and many children grow out of it and develop their articulation skills further to be able to say these words. This typical phonological error/difficulty typically develops when a child is 2-3 years old. It usually clears up on its own by the time the child is about 3 ½.
How to help children with cluster reduction (cluster simplification)
Some children may need a bit of extra support to stop cluster simplification. If a child is 2-4 and still has problems with cluster simplification, then it may be a good idea to speak to a speech pathologist for advice and help.
It is important to note that cluster reduction/simplification is a phonological error, meaning that it is not a physical disability causing this difficulty in articulation. However, if a child continues to speak with cluster reduction after a certain age, they may have a phonological process disorder.
A speech pathologist can listen to a child’s speech and determine whether they have a phonological process disorder. This might sound scary and upsetting, but there is no reason to worry because children can have speech therapy to help with cluster reduction.
A speech pathologist is trained in articulation treatments and should be able to correct phonological process disorders. The speech pathologist will work with the child to eliminate cluster simplification. They will demonstrate to the child how to properly say each word and will correct the child when they shorten it. They may also play games or activities with the child to help them with their articulation. A speech pathologist may also recommend activities for parents to do at home with their children.
