05/29/2026
As children learn to talk, they often use patterns called phonological processes to simplify speech. These patterns are a normal part of development when children are young, but they typically fade as speech skills mature. Some of the main patterns we see in children in our practice include:
Fronting (Developed by 4 years of age):
Sounds made in the back of the mouth (like /k/ and /g/) are replaced with sounds made in the front of the mouth (like /t/ and /d/).
Examples:
“tootie” for “cookie”
“tat” for “cat”
Stopping (Developed by 3-5 years of age depending on sound):
Continuous airflow sounds (like /f/, /s/, or /sh/) are replaced with stop sounds such as /p/, /b/, or /t/.
Examples:
“tun” for “sun”
“tunny” for “funny”
Frontal Lisp (Developed by 4.5 years of age):
The tongue pushes forward between or against the front teeth during sounds like /s/ and /z/, creating a distorted sound quality.
Examples:
“thun” for “sun”
“yeth” for “yes”
Lateral Lisp (not a part of typical development):
Air escapes over the sides of the tongue during sounds like /s/, /z/, /sh/, and /ch/, often creating a “slushy” sound quality.
Examples:
“shunglashesh” for “sunglasses”
Gliding (Developed by 5 years of age):
Sounds like /l/ and /r/ are replaced with /w/ or /y/.
Examples:
“wowipop for “lollipop”
“wed” for “red”
Phonological processes and speech sound patterns are part of typical speech development, but when they persist beyond expected ages, speech may become difficult to understand and therapy support may be beneficial. Early intervention can help children build clearer speech, confidence, literacy foundations, and meaningful communication skills.
