Speech Sound Home Practice Ideas
In this resource article we will give you plenty of ideas of how you can practice your child’s speech sounds at home with them.
Practising speech sounds over and over is important for helping your child's speech therapy. It's like doing exercises for their words and brain. When they repeat words and sounds, it helps their brain remember how to say them correctly. This repetition builds a kind of memory for their muscles, making it easier for them to use their speech sounds in everyday conversations. It's a bit like learning to ride a bike – the more they practice, the better they get. Regular practice not only boosts their confidence but also helps the new way of talking become more natural for them.
Picture this, your speech pathologist has just given you two sounds to work on with your child. Your child can be difficult to engage, especially when practising these new sounds... it is tiring work!
We have come up with a list of different games that help to make your child's speech sound journey fun, a Wonder Words core value! Ask your wonderful speech pathologist for some speech sound target cards that have words that are specific to your child's speech sound errors, if they have not already been provided, and get started with our games below!
Hide and Speak Adventure:
Transform speech sound practice into a thrilling hide-and-seek adventure. Scatter speech sound target cards around the house, and as your child discovers each card, they say the word three times. For an extra challenge, turn the cards into a puzzle for them to assemble at the end.
Wall of Words:
Make your wall a target gallery by sticking speech-sound target cards on it. Take turns with your child aiming a softball at a chosen card, saying the target word. This interactive game promotes turn-taking and shared participation.
Story Building (for older children):
Boost creativity and speech practice by creating a story where each sentence includes a word with the target speech sound. Take turns adding to the story, making it a fun and engaging exercise.
Treasure Hunt:
Develop a treasure hunt where clues/answers contain words with the target speech sound. You can support your child to say the word through modelling and then move on to the next clue, combining speech practice with problem-solving skills.
Memory Match:
Play a memory card game with pairs of cards featuring words with the target speech sound. This not only enhances memory skills but also reinforces speech practice.
Charades:
Spice up traditional charades by acting out words with the target speech sound. After each round, discuss the word, emphasising correct pronunciation.
Jenga with a Twist:
Label Jenga blocks with words containing the target speech sound. As your child removes a block, they say the word before placing it on top.
Board Game Bonanza:
Modify board games to include speech sound cards or challenges. Landing on a certain space might require saying a word with the target sound.
Alphabet Bingo:
Create bingo cards with words featuring the target speech sound. Calling out words and marking corresponding cards not only practices speech sounds but also reinforces letter recognition and listening skills.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns regarding ideas for your speech sound home practice!
