ZH Sound Words
The ZH sound is a soft buzzing sound, the voiced partner of SH, heard in the middle of 'measure' and 'treasure'.
Age of acquisition. ZH is one of the later sounds and is rare in English. Most children produce it clearly between ages 5 and 6. Norms vary between children and between sources, so treat this as a rough guide, not a deadline. If you have concerns, an SLP can assess.
How to make it. Make a SH, then turn your voice on so it buzzes softly. It almost never starts a word in English.
How to practice the ZH sound at home
- Start at the word level, then move to short phrases and sentences once the ZH sound is easy on its own.
- Practice in short, frequent bursts. Five focused minutes a day beats one long weekly session.
- Model it first: say the word slowly, stretch the ZH sound so your child can hear it, then have them copy you.
- Use the picture cards to keep it playful, and praise good tries, not just perfect ones.
ZH sound questions
- What words have the ZH sound?
- This page lists ZH words grouped by position (beginning, middle, and end of the word) and by syllable count, each with a picture card and tap-to-hear audio. Scroll down for the full list.
- At what age should my child say the ZH sound?
- ZH is one of the later sounds and is rare in English. Most children produce it clearly between ages 5 and 6. Norms vary between children and between sources, so treat this as a rough guide, not a deadline. If you have concerns, an SLP can assess.