What does consonant cluster reduction target in speech?

Consonant cluster reduction specifically involves simplifying complex consonant clusters into simpler sounds. In many cases, children may struggle to produce multiple consonants in a row, which can lead to the omission of one or more consonants in a cluster. For example, the word "splash" might be pronounced as "pash" or "sash," where the sounds are simplified. This process is a natural part of language development as children refine their speech patterns and motor skills.

The other options do not accurately describe consonant cluster reduction: eliminating vowels does not pertain to consonant clustering, replacing consonants with vowels is a different phenomenon, and adding consonants to begin words does not relate to the simplification of existing clusters. Understanding consonant cluster reduction is essential in recognizing how children develop their speech while navigating the complexities of language.