203. Consonant Clusters Aren’t Too Hard: They’re the Shortcut.

Are consonant clusters really “too complex” for kids with severe speech sound disorders—or have we been aiming too low? This episode tackles one of the most persistent myths in speech therapy: that children with childhood apraxia of speech, autism, or severe speech delay aren’t ready for clusters. I’m unpacking the real science behind complexity, coarticulation, and system-wide change—and why waiting for “readiness” often slows progress rather than supporting it. Let's break down three common myths that are not evidence-based: • Myth 1: Children must master single sounds before clusters • Myth 2: Clusters should always come later in treatment • Myth 3: Consonant deletion must be fixed first You’ll hear why speech doesn’t develop like a geyser, how the waterfall effect actually works, and why starting with complex targets can accelerate gains across the entire sound system—even in preschoolers. This episode also walks through how to do this in therapy: using dynamic tactile-temporal cueing, maintaining an 80% challenge point, and choosing treatment targets that improve motor planning, programming, and verbal working memory simultaneously. If clusters feel uncomfortable, slow, or messy—that’s the point. Challenge creates change. Want treatment targets that already do this work for you—without reinventing the wheel every week? Join the SIS Membership for ready-to-use, research-informed activities designed to create real speech change while protecting your time and energy. https://www.kellyvess.com/sis