Stuttering is a fluency disorder that often begins during childhood. It is characterized by disruptions, or “disfluencies,” in speech. Stuttering usually starts between 2 and 6 years old. Many children go through normal periods of disfluency lasting less than 6 months. Stuttering that lasts longer than this may need treatment.
Children who stutter may sound strained or out of breath when they speak, as well as exhibit:
- Part-word repetition: “w-w-where is the party?”
- Sound prolongation: “sssso how are you doing?”
- Interjections: “can I go uh-um-er to the bathroom?”
An SLP can provide a comprehensive speech evaluation, noting the types of disfluencies, characteristics of repeated sounds and reactions to stress when speaking.
It is especially important for young children to undergo speech evaluations to determine if they would benefit from therapy. An SLP can help your child speak more fluently, communicate more effectively and participate in more activities with peers.
Call Topeka ENT at 785-233-0500 for more information or to schedule an appointment.