Let’s go over some basics here.
In English, there are many initial clusters with two consonant sounds and some with three.
- Prayed (not parade)
- Stream (not steam)
Many initial clusters with two and three consonants sounds contain /r/ or /l/.
- To practice basic /r/ and /l/ before practicing these sounds, remember to tune back in later on.
Also, if you simplify initial clusters by inserting a vowel sound, (e.h., if you say below instead of blow or support instead of sport), this tip is for you.
If the first consonant sound in a cluster is a stop sound (/p, b. t, d, k, g/), do not release the stop until you are ready to say the next sound.
Blow (release /b/ as you say /l/)
Trouble (release /t/ as you say /r/)
If the first consonant sound is not a stop, continue it until the next sound.
Sports (sssport)
Flow (ffflow)