Abstract
ABSTRACT Speech development delays in early childhood remain a significant challenge that demands innovative approaches and effective rehabilitation methods. In the contemporary context, virtual reality technologies offer unique opportunities to address these delays, providing a personalised and accessible approach to rehabilitation. The objective of this study is to measure the effectiveness of virtual reality in overcoming speech development delays in preschool children and to evaluate potential methods for utilising such technologies. To achieve this goal, a testing method was employed. The research sample consisted of 100 preschool children (ages 5–7) with speech development delays. Each participant underwent standardised tests designed to assess their speech abilities. The findings indicate that the use of virtual reality technologies resulted in a substantial improvement in speech development among preschoolers. Specifically, the level of speech development increased from 45% to 65% and the number of words known to the children significantly grew, with vocabulary expanding from an average of 30 to 55 words following VR intervention. Regardless of gender, test results improved with the use of VR technologies, suggesting a positive impact on speech development for both boys and girls. Thus, the study confirms the effectiveness of virtual reality technologies in supporting children with speech development delays.