The dummy may have been, and often is, an important ally during phases of excessive crying, colic, and difficult nights. Blaming yourself for having used it doesn't help. What makes a difference is what you decide to do from now on, in light of the question "does the dummy delay speech?" and the information you already know.
Having a child who speaks quickly, with enthusiasm and many ideas, can be wonderful. But when that speed causes words to get lost and communication to become confused, it's important to look closer.
The good news is that with the right support, it's possible to adjust the pace, clarify speech, and help the child feel more confident.
Seeing a child not pronounce the “R” well might seem like a small detail, but as they grow, this "minor error" can start to weigh on their self-esteem, how they participate in the classroom, and how they see themselves. The good news is that, in most cases, with appropriate support, it's possible to significantly improve their clarity and confidence in speaking.
Having a child who talks very loudly can be tiring and sometimes embarrassing in public spaces. But it's important to remember that, in most cases, it's not a matter of "bad manners," nor is it something the child does "on purpose" to annoy adults.
Childhood apraxia of speech is a specific disorder of motor speech planning, with well-defined core signs and a thorough evaluation process. Early identification of the signs, conducting a comprehensive speech therapy assessment, and initiating intervention based on motor training are steps that change course.
