Tongue twisters for kids
Tongue twisters turn similar sounds into a playful speaking challenge. Explore twelve examples used in English, from very short phrases to longer sentences. These familiar word games have different versions; the practice tips below have been written for this collection.
Begin slowly: clear words matter more than speed. Mistakes are part of the game, so enjoy the sounds and try again when you feel ready.
Short tongue twisters to start with
Red lorry, yellow lorry
Red lorry, yellow lorry.
Practice tip: Say each colour clearly, then repeat the whole phrase three times.
Three free throws
Three free throws.
Practice tip: Listen for the difference between th in three and f in free.
Greek grapes
Greek grapes.
Practice tip: Keep the gr sound together and finish the word grapes.
Eleven elves
Eleven elves.
Practice tip: Take care with the final sounds in elves.
Six thin things
Six thin things.
Practice tip: Start slowly and notice the difference between s and th.
Fresh fried fish
Fresh fried fish.
Practice tip: Keep the words separate before trying a faster rhythm.
Red leather, yellow leather
Red leather, yellow leather.
Practice tip: Practise the change between r and l without rushing.
Longer tongue twisters and sound challenges
She sells seashells
She sells seashells by the seashore.
Practice tip: Listen for s in sells and sh in she, shells and shore.
The coffee cup
Give papa a cup of proper coffee in a copper coffee cup.
Practice tip: Break the sentence into short groups, then join them together.
Two witches
If two witches were watching two watches,
which witch would watch which watch?
Practice tip: Keep witches and watches distinct and pause at the comma.
The big black bug
A big black bug bit a big black bear.
Practice tip: Notice how big, black, bug and bit begin in similar ways.
Peter Piper
Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.
Practice tip: Practise peck, picked and pickled slowly before reading the full line.
How to practise tongue twisters with children
- Read the phrase and check any unfamiliar words.
- Listen to another speaker or break the phrase into short groups.
- Repeat slowly and keep every word clear.
- Try a little more speed only when it feels comfortable.
- Take turns or choose another example whenever you like.
An echo game
One person says a short part and the group echoes it. Join the parts together, keeping a comfortable rhythm. Gentle claps can help mark the beat without turning mistakes into a competition.
Does everyone say the same version?
No. Oral word games circulate in different versions, and pronunciation varies between accents. Your family or teacher may know a slightly different wording.