Helping kids practice their speech sounds doesn’t always require flashcards or formal drills. Some of the best practice happens naturally throughout the day! Here are a few simple ways to turn everyday routines into fun speech opportunities:

Morning Routine Moments

Brushing teeth, getting dressed, or packing a backpack are great times to practice target words. Keep it playful:

  • “Shirt on!” (for /sh/)
  • “Zip, zip!” (for /z/)
  • “Boots!” (for /b/)

Car Ride Sound Games

Use drive time for quick, low-pressure practice. Try “I Spy” with a sound focus (“I spy something that starts with /k/… car!”), or repeat silly target words together.

Snack Time Practice

Food motivates! Use snack choices or actions to practice keywords:

  • “Cut, carrot, cookie”
  • “Pour, pack, pick”
  • “snack, sit, done”

Bath Time Bubbles

Bath time is a great moment for repetition and fun words. Blow bubbles and practice words like “pop,” “big,” “soap,” or whatever matches your child’s current goals.

Bedtime Books with a Purpose

During story time, pause to highlight words containing your child’s target sounds. You can say the word slowly, emphasize the sound, or ask your child to repeat just once. Keep it short and fun!

Picture of Lindsay, CCC, SLP

Lindsay, CCC, SLP

Lindsay Edmonds, MS, CCC-SLP, is a pediatric speech-language pathologist who earned both her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of South Florida. She is an active member of ASHA and has experience providing evaluations and evidence-based therapy across clinical, school, and telepractice settings. Lindsay specializes in supporting children with a wide range of communication and developmental needs, including autism, speech sound disorders, language delays, AAC, and feeding challenges. She is passionate about individualized, family-centered care and believes every child deserves the opportunity to communicate. Outside of work, she enjoys sports, travel, concerts, and spending time with family and friends.