Stuttering
​Some children have difficulty speaking smoothly, experiencing frequent interruptions in their speech flow. Preschool-aged children may go through periods of stuttering as they develop language skills, often repeating sounds, syllables, or words. While some outgrow this phase, others continue to struggle with fluency. School-aged children with persistent stuttering may experience increased frustration, anxiety, and reduced confidence in communication, especially in social and academic settings. Early intervention can help improve fluency and support a child’s ability to express themselves with ease.
Speech therapy for children who stutter
Speech therapy helps children who stutter by improving their fluency, confidence, and ability to communicate effectively. Our speech-language pathologist (SLP) will tailor therapy based on your child’s age, severity of stuttering, and individual needs.
Key Therapy Approaches:
-
Fluency-Shaping Techniques – Teaching strategies like slow, controlled speech, gentle onsets, and pausing to promote smoother speech.
-
Stuttering Modification – Helping children manage stuttering moments by reducing tension and developing easier speech flow.
-
Desensitization & Confidence Building – Encouraging children to talk openly about stuttering and practice speech in supportive settings.
-
Parent Coaching – Providing strategies to create a relaxed speaking environment, reduce pressure, and support fluency at home.
-
Self-Regulation & Mindfulness – Teaching breathing techniques and relaxation strategies to reduce speech-related anxiety.
Early intervention is key to preventing frustration, anxiety, and social withdrawal. Therapy helps children develop effective communication skills, boosting their confidence and overall well-being.
Key facts about children who stutter:
Common in Early Childhood – Stuttering often begins between ages 2-5 and may resolve naturally for some children.
Genetics Play a Role – Stuttering can run in families, with boys more likely to stutter than girls.
Environmental Triggers – Stressful events can worsen stuttering.
Not Linked to Intelligence – Stuttering affects speech fluency, not cognitive ability.
Impact on Communication – Stuttering can affect social interactions, academics, and self-esteem.
​
Treatment Helps – Speech therapy can improve fluency and confidence.
Common parent concerns about children who stutter include:
-
Will my child outgrow it? – Parents may wonder if their child’s stuttering will improve naturally as they grow.
-
Will stuttering affect their social life? – Concerns about bullying, teasing, or social isolation due to speech difficulties.
-
Impact on academic performance – Worries about how stuttering may affect reading, speaking in class, or overall school success.
-
Is this caused by anxiety or stress? – Parents may question whether emotional factors are contributing to their child’s stuttering.
-
How can I help at home? – Uncertainty about how to support their child in everyday conversations without making the situation worse.
-
Does therapy work? – Questions about the effectiveness of speech therapy and when to seek professional help.
-
Will this get worse over time? – Fears about stuttering becoming more severe or persistent as the child gets older.
​
Early intervention and support can address many of these concerns, helping children build confidence and improve communication.
Ready to start online speech therapy?
