Speech Sound Disorders (SSD) are a common challenge among children, and one specific area that often needs targeted intervention is S Cluster Reduction.
This phonological error pattern—where children omit the /s/ sound in clusters (e.g., saying “poon” instead of “spoon”)—can significantly impact speech intelligibility. Bjorem Speech® offers a range of innovative, research-based products specifically designed to address S Cluster Reduction and support speech therapists, educators, and families in creating effective and engaging speech therapy experiences. While we are at it, let's highlight the terminology we are using here, they are "clusters," not "blends."
S Cluster Elicitation Bundle
If you’re looking for a solid starting point for tackling S clusters, this is it.
The S Cluster Elicitation decks use a clever snake visual to cue the /s/ sound, helping kids “see” the sound before they say it. By pairing that snake cue with a real word (like /s/ + no = snow), the decks create an equation that just clicks—turning abstract concepts into something concrete and accessible for the clients we serve.
This two-deck bundle includes 138 cards targeting key /s/ clusters: /sl/, /sm/, /sn/, /sw/, /sk/, /sp/, and /st/ and is designed to help you incorporate forward and backward chaining with ease. Add in the bright, kid-friendly illustrations and the use of voiced/voiceless cognates to support motor planning, and you’ve got a go-to resource that’s as fun as it is effective, especially for kids with speech sound disorders or apraxia.
Bjorem Speech® Cluster Cues
All aboard for clearer speech! The Bjorem Speech Cluster Cues deck turns tricky sound combinations into something visual, concrete, and fun. Using a playful train theme, each card represents a different part of a sound cluster: the engine, carriage, and caboose stand in for the beginning, middle, and end of a word. It’s a brilliant way to help kids “see” how sounds connect—and what happens when one goes missing.
With 47 train cards, including a gap card for deleted sounds and a schwa card for those sneaky vowel additions, this deck gives SLPs a hands-on way to teach phonological awareness and cluster accuracy. The color-coded system helps kids quickly recognize sound positions, making therapy sessions smoother and more engaging. Whether you’re working on initial, medial, or final clusters, these cues are a must-have for visual and play-based learners. It’s especially effective when paired with the Bjorem Speech Sound Cues that children may already be familiar with.
Minimal Pairs for S Cluster Reduction
When it comes to correcting S cluster reduction, minimal pairs are a must-have—and this deck makes the process both streamlined and engaging. The Bjorem S Cluster Reduction Minimal Pair Cards are designed to help kids hear the difference between what they’re saying and what they should be saying. Think "top" vs. "stop" or "cool" vs. "school". That contrast is where the magic happens.
With 72 total cards—66 of which are minimal pairs—this deck targets critical contrasts like /sk/ vs. /k/, /sl/ vs. /l/, /sm/ vs. /m/, /sn/ vs. /n/, /sp/ vs. /p/, /st/ vs. /t/, and /sw/ vs. /w/. It’s a focused, effective way to build both awareness and accurate production. Plus, with three types of cue cards included, you’ve got multiple ways to support learning and keep things fresh. Ideal for ages 3 and up, this is a go-to resource for anyone targeting S cluster reduction in a functional, fun way.
Cycles S Clusters
Designed specifically for clinicians using the Cycles Approach, the Cycles S Clusters deck includes both initial and final /s/ clusters with carefully selected targets that align with phonological goals. For kids aged 3-7 with significant phonological needs, the Cycles S Clusters deck is rooted in the evidence-based Cycles Approach, this 45-card deck covers /st/, /sp/, /sn/, /sm/, /sk/, /sw/, /sl/, /stɹ/, /spɹ/, /skɹ/, /spl/, /ts/, /ps/, and /ks/ with targets carefully chosen to support both accuracy and phonemic awareness. Each card features a phonetically facilitated context, making complex sound production more accessible.
Want to learn more about the difference between the cycles and minimal pairs decks? See here.
Complexity Approach Bundle for S Clusters
Looking to make the biggest impact in the shortest time? The Bjorem Speech® Complexity Approach Bundle is your go-to resource for targeting later-developing, complex clusters that push phonological growth system-wide. Inspired by the research of Gierut (2001), this bundle includes three decks focused on challenging 2- and 3-element clusters—making it ideal for kids with persistent phonological disorders.
Each deck includes around 40 cards that tap into principles of markedness and sonority difference, helping kids master the hard stuff so the “easier” sounds fall into place naturally. That means faster progress, better generalization, and fewer sessions stuck on the basics.
From /skɹ/ to /spl/, the engaging visuals and carefully selected targets spark motivation and high trial counts—exactly what’s needed for lasting change. Whether you’re in the clinic, classroom, or coaching parents at home, this bundle gives you the tools to boost clarity and confidence through evidence-based intervention that works smarter, not harder.
Box of S Clusters
If you’re targeting tricky /s/ clusters, the Box of S Clusters is a ready-to-go resource that brings clarity, connection, and fun into your therapy sessions. Sold as part of the Bjorem Speech® Box of S, R, and L Clusters Bundle and part of the Box of Sounds™ collection, this 40-card set is all about practicing /s/ clusters in the initial position with functional, relatable words and inclusive illustrations that keep kids engaged.
From snake and snowflake to spoon, spider, and sticker, the deck is packed with words kids actually use, making it easier for them to carry over skills into real-life communication. The artwork is intentionally diverse and dynamic, giving each card more than just a target word, it offers a moment for language, conversation, and connection.
SLP ADVICE: HOW TO DECIDE WHICH DECK TO USE
By leveraging these Bjorem Speech® products, you can make significant progress in reducing S Cluster Reduction and improving overall speech intelligibility in children. Our resources are designed with inclusivity, clarity, and fun in mind—ensuring every child feels seen and supported on their speech journey.
