This is a general parent method. If your child sees an SLP, their specific instructions always come first.
1. Listen first
Before asking your child to say anything, let them hear the sound in lots of words. Read a short book and point out the sound, or play "thumbs up if you hear it".
2. Start where it's easy
Begin with the sound at the start of short, familiar words ("sun", "sock"). Middle and end positions can come later.
3. Model, then invite
Say the word clearly, then pause and invite your child to try. One or two tries per word is plenty.
4. Respond to errors gently
Simply repeat the word correctly ("sun — yes!") and move on. Avoid "no, say it right", which tends to make children stop trying.
5. Build up gradually
Once words feel comfortable, try short phrases, then silly sentences, then the sound in conversation.
6. Keep it regular
About five minutes most days. Consistency matters more than length.
When to talk to a speech-language pathologist
SoundSprout is home practice, not an assessment. A licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) can evaluate your child and recommend what to work on. Consider reaching out if:
People outside the family often can't understand your child
Your child is frustrated, avoids talking, or is teased about speech
A sound most children their age use easily still isn't there
SoundSprout is guided daily practice for one speech sound: ten words, about five minutes, with a warm voice modeling every word. Up to five children per account.
SoundSprout