Helping Kids Master R and S Sounds at Home

The /r/ and /s/ sounds are two of the most commonly challenging articulation targets. With the right cues and brief daily practice, most children make steady gains.

Why /r/ is tricky

The tongue has to lift and stay tense without touching the teeth. We teach students to “tighten the tongue, smile a little, and pull the sound back.”

Why /s/ is tricky

Air must flow in a narrow stream down the center of the tongue. A slight smile and “teeth together” helps control airflow (no “th” slip).

Quick practice ideas (2–5 minutes)

• Mirror practice: watch tongue placement and airflow

• Sound hunts: circle /r/ or /s/ words in books or signs

• Tongue twisters: “Silly snakes slither silently,” “Red robots race”

• Reading aloud: emphasize target words with a sticker chart

• Record & replay: kids love hearing their progress

When to seek support

If progress stalls after a month of consistent practice—or frustration spikes—it’s a great time for a speech evaluation.

Want a personalized plan for your child’s /r/ and /s/ sounds?
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References

• ASHA. Articulation and phonological disorders—clinical practice guidance.

• McLeod, S. Evidence-based articulation intervention strategies.