Lisps in Children: When to Get Help
If your child says "thun" instead of "sun," you are hearing a lisp. Lisps are very common in young children and are often just part of learning to talk. Knowing the different types, and when they matter, can help you decide whether to relax or reach out.
What a lisp is
A lisp is a difficulty making the "s" and "z" sounds cleanly. It usually happens because the tongue is not quite in the right place, so the air escapes the wrong way. The most common kind is the tongue poking between the teeth, which gives that gentle "th" flavour to words.
The different types
In a frontal lisp, the tongue pushes forward between the teeth. In a lateral lisp, air spills over the sides of the tongue, giving a wet, slushy sound. Frontal lisps are common and often fade on their own. Lateral lisps are less typical at any age and usually benefit from support, as they rarely disappear without help. Both fall under an articulation difficulty.
When a lisp is normal
A frontal lisp in a child under four or five is usually nothing to worry about, especially while the front teeth are still coming and going. Many children outgrow it naturally. You can check typical sound development on our milestones page to see whether your child is on track.
When to get help
Consider an assessment if a lisp is still clear at around five or six, if it is a lateral or slushy type at any age, or if it knocks your child’s confidence. Early help is gentle and playful, and the sooner a sound pattern is addressed, the easier it usually is to change. There is no need to wait and see if you are worried, as a short assessment can quickly tell you whether to relax or step in. Catching a lateral lisp early is especially worthwhile, since it very rarely fades on its own without a little guidance.
What to do next
If a lisp is on your mind, we can tell you whether it is a passing phase or worth a little support. Reach us through our contact page or learn how our speech therapy service helps children make clear, confident sounds.
Frequently asked questions
Is a lisp normal in young children?
A frontal lisp, where the tongue pokes between the teeth, is very common and often nothing to worry about in a child under four or five. Many children outgrow it naturally, especially while their front teeth are still coming and going.
What is the difference between a frontal and a lateral lisp?
In a frontal lisp the tongue pushes forward between the teeth, giving a soft "th" sound. In a lateral lisp, air spills over the sides of the tongue, giving a wet or slushy sound. Lateral lisps usually benefit from support at any age.
At what age should a lisp go away?
A frontal lisp often fades by around four or five as speech matures. If a clear lisp is still present at five or six, or if it is a lateral, slushy type at any age, it is a good idea to seek a professional opinion.
Can a lisp be corrected?
Yes, lisps respond very well to gentle, playful therapy that teaches the tongue a new resting place for the "s" sound. The earlier a sound pattern is addressed, the easier it usually is to change, so early help is well worth it.
