Little Words

Say & Play SH and CH sounds

Shoes and Cheese

Initial /sh/ and /ch/ words selected by an SLP or caregiver

4 meaningful actionspack4 communication levelsSpeech optional

How this routine works

Sheep is getting ready for a picnic. Pack the things that make the outing work. The child changes the scene through four connected actions. These are the authored prompts and models, so an adult can preview the language before play.

  1. Play action 1Sheep needs something to wear.
    Buddy models: Shoes on.
    Sheep puts on the shoes.
  2. Play action 2Choose a picnic snack.
    Buddy models: Cheese in the basket.
    The cheese goes into the basket.
  3. Play action 3Add a place to sit.
    Buddy models: Chair by the blanket.
    The chair unfolds.
  4. Play action 4Who is ready to go?
    Buddy models: Sheep is ready.
    Sheep carries the basket outside.

Why this interaction fits the communication goal

Primary target: Initial /sh/ and /ch/ words selected by an SLP or caregiver

Ways to participate: Pack the picnic by tapping or dragging. Speech is optional.

  • The scene carries the meaning. The child acts directly on the objects instead of answering flashcards over a background.
  • Models can stay short or expand. Examples include:
    • sound attempt
    • word approximation
    • target word
    • short phrase
  • Speech is never a gate. Tapping, dragging, gesture, AAC, approximations, and spoken language can all be meaningful participation.
  • The payoff belongs to the action. Each choice changes the scene, and the routine ends with the result of what the child has been doing.

This resource supports education and guided practice. It is not an assessment, diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for individualized care from a qualified speech-language pathologist. Little Words Editorial authors and checks the interaction, language, and access behavior. Read our editorial standards.

Does a child have to speak?

No. Speech can be invited and modeled, but it is never required or scored.

How should an adult choose a model?

Use a model that fits the child’s current communication goal. When a child is receiving speech therapy, follow the target words, cues, and practice guidance from the child’s SLP.