R Facilitative Contexts Product FAQs

We’ve gathered some common questions about using the R Facilitative Contexts resource. Whether you’re wondering if it applies to vocalic/rhotic 'r' or whether it will work for you, this page will help guide your use of the tool.

Can this resource help with vocalic/rhotic 'r' (like in “car” or “her”)?

Yes! While the screener was designed to help establish a stable production of 'r' in non-vocalic contexts we have also found that it can be used universally by SLPs.

Helps establish a stable consonantal 'r', which can then be used to support vocalic 'r'.
Supports coarticulation strategies.

Will all of these contexts work for every child?

Not necessarily. No single cue or context works for all children, and we don’t claim that it does. This resource does include 12 unique contexts however, and all the real-world practicing SLPs that trialed the screener were able to identify at least one that supported a clearer /r/ sound.

What's the difference between rhotic and non-rhotic accents?

Rhoticity refers to whether speakers pronounce the 'r' sound in all positions within words.

Rhotic accents: Most American and Canadian English speakers produce 'r' in words like car, shirt, water.
Non-rhotic accents: Many Australian, New Zealand, South African, and some British speakers may omit 'r' in certain contexts, producing cah for car.

This difference is important to keep in mind, as some facilitative contexts may work more effectively depending on the speaker’s accent.

Still not sure if the R Facilitative Contexts resource is right for you?

Contact our team directly, we'll help you work through if this product will suit your needs.