R Distortion

The "Karla" Technique (The Growl)

Goal: To separate lip movement from tongue movement. 

Instruction:

1. The Problem: Most kids round their lips (ooh shape) which distorts the R.

2. The Fix: Use a tongue depressor or your finger to gently push the corners of their lips back into a smile.

3. The Sound: Ask them to growl "Grrrrr" or "Arrrrr" (like a pirate) while maintaining the smile.

4. Why: You cannot make a "W" sound if you are smiling!