Stuttering Disorder

Stuttering (or referred to as disfluency), is a communication challenge that impacts the natural flow of speech. Many children experience disfluencies at various ages, and this is often a normal part of speech development. However, frequent disfluencies can make communication challenging and may cause frustration for both the child and their family. A speech-language pathologist (S-LP) can assess whether your child’s disfluencies may benefit from therapy.

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Signs that your child may be stuttering include frequent:

 

- Whole word repetitions (e.g., "My, my, my ball")

- Part-word repetitions (e.g., "far- far- far- farmer")

- Initial sound repetitions (e.g., "t-, t-, t-, table")

- Prolongations (stretching sounds) (e.g., "mmmmmmmy doll")

- Blocks or stops (getting stuck on a word with no sound coming out)

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The causes of stuttering are complex and varied. Early referral to a speech-language pathologist (S-LP) is recommended, as early intervention often leads to more successful outcomes. After a thorough evaluation of fluency and an assessment of speech and language characteristics is conducted, the S-LP will suggest therapy based on factors such as the child’s age, severity of stuttering, and environmental influences (e.g., school setting). Based on this information, a tailored treatment plan is created.

 

At Speech Hub, we take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the child within the context of their family, friends, and school environment. The treatment aims to modify speech behaviors as well as address emotions and attitudes related to speaking and communication. The duration and frequency of stuttering therapy will depend on the severity of the disorder and the individual goals established during the assessment.

 

Stuttering Improvements Include:

 

- Decreasing the frequency of stuttering 

- Reducing tension during stuttering episodes 

- Identifying and minimizing word avoidance or avoidance of “triggering” situations 

- Examining and gaining awareness of thoughts and feelings related to stuttering 

- Enhancing effective communication