When it comes to speech development in children, one common speech issue parents might encounter is a lisp. But not all lisps are the same… there are different types, and today we’re focusing on the lateral lisp.
In fact, lateral lisps are more common than you might think, especially during the early years.
What is a Lateral Lisp?
A lateral lisp is when a child produces the "s" or "z" sound with a slushy, wet sound. This happens when air flows around the sides of the tongue, instead of through the center. You’ll notice that instead of a clear "s" sound, it may sound more like a "th" or a slushy sound. This kind of lisp can sometimes make communication harder to understand, especially for younger children who are still learning to express themselves clearly (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association [ASHA], n.d.).
When does a Lateral Lisp occur?
It’s important to remember that many children go through phases where their speech isn’t perfect. The early stages of speech development involve mastering difficult sounds, and it’s normal for kids to mispronounce words. Most children with a lateral lisp are between the ages of 3-5 when this sound is first noticeable, as this is when they start learning how to produce the full range of speech sounds (Speech Pathology Australia, n.d.).
How long does it last?
For many children, a lisp will resolve naturally by the time they reach 5-7 years old as their speech matures and they begin to practice more (Speech Pathology Australia, n.d.). However, if the lisp persists past these early years, it can be a sign that the child needs additional support.
By the age of 7, children should have mastered the basic speech sounds needed for clear communication. If a lateral lisp is still noticeable at this age, it may be time to consider speech therapy (NIDCD, n.d.).
Why is it important to address it?
While lateral lisps are relatively common and don’t always require intervention, it's needed to monitor their persistence. If not addressed, they can affect a child’s confidence in speaking, particularly as they enter school. Children with persistent speech issues may struggle to communicate with their peers and teachers, potentially affecting their academic and social development (Speech Pathology Australia, n.d.).
By the time children reach 9 years and older, the impact of a lateral lisp can become more significant. Peer pressure and the expectation to communicate more clearly in school might make a child more self-conscious. At this stage, speech therapy is often the best solution to correct the lisp and support clear, effective communication (Speech Therapy Australia, n.d.).
What can you do as a parent?
If you notice that your child has a lateral lisp that persists past the early years, there are steps you can take to help. Speech therapy is the most effective way to correct a lateral lisp. A speech-language therapist can work with your child to develop the correct tongue placement and improve clarity in their speech.
Additionally, a child’s environment plays a significant role in speech development. Encouraging good speech habits at home like practicing sounds, reading together, and engaging in conversations can support the work done in therapy (Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, n.d.).
The Role of Early Intervention
The key takeaway here is that early intervention is important – always! Children who are identified early and receive the right speech therapy are far more likely to overcome speech issues like lateral lisps without lasting effects. That’s why it’s important to act early if you’re concerned about your child’s speech development.
Connecting with Total Communication
At Total Communication, we understand how speech challenges like lateral lisps can impact your child’s confidence and social interactions. Our team of experienced therapists is committed to providing personalized support to help children with speech difficulties, including lateral lisps. We use evidence-based strategies and engage children with fun, interactive methods that make learning effective and enjoyable. If you’re concerned about your child’s speech, reach out to us.
Contact Total Communication today and let us help your child communicate with clarity and confidence.
References:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). Lisping. https://www.asha.org
Speech Pathology Australia. (n.d.). Lisping: Understanding and Therapy. https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). (n.d.). Speech and Language Development. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). (n.d.). Lisping: Causes and Treatment. https://www.rcslt.org
Speech Therapy Australia. (n.d.). Treating Lisping in Children. https://www.speechtherapy.com.au
SpeechPathology.com. (n.d.). Speech Therapy for Lisping. https://www.speechpathology.com
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