S-blend Practice in Winter

S-blends are a type of consonant blend where the "s" sound is combined with another consonant, such as "sk," "sl," "sm," "sn," "sp," "st," or "sw." Examples of s-blends include words like "snow," "skate," and "stick." Children typically start using s-blends around the age of 3-3.5 years of age. However, some children may experience delays and require additional support to develop their speech skills.

If you are looking for ways to help your child practice using s-blends while having fun with winter-themed activities, there are many options. For example, building a snowman or making snow angels provides opportunities to use s-blends while describing the texture and size of the snow. Going skiing or skating can also help your child practice these sounds while discussing their experience on the slopes or ice rink. Additionally, reading winter-themed picture books that include words like "sweater," "scarf," and "snowman" can give your child more exposure to s-blends in a fun and engaging way.

Other winter season activities that can help your child practice s-blends include baking “star” sugar cookies, “stirring” the “sweet” hot chocolate, or having a family game night of “snakes and ladders” by the fireplace. You can also incorporate s-blends into conversation during daily activities like getting dressed for the cold weather or decorating the fireplace with “stockings”. By creating opportunities for your child to practice s-blends while having fun, you can help them improve their speech and language skills while also creating special memories as a family.

If you have concerns about how your child is using these sounds, contact your SLP or contact Clearway Speech here. 

If you have a toddler that is still learning to build their vocabulary, go to the ultimate blueprint to Help Your Toddler Talk online learning experience.