Fluency refers to a speaker’s ability to demonstrate smooth, connected speech with natural intonation and pausing.
Fluency Disorders
Fluency disorders, or stuttering, occur when an individual has a hard time executing the movements needed to create this smooth speech.
More Typical Disfluencies
More typical disfluencies are those that many speakers produce fairly frequently. Examples include whole word repetitions, restarting a sentence, or rephrasing.
Less Typical Disfluencies
Less typical disfluencies include speech behaviors like single sound repetitions, blocks, or prolongations. The presence of these less typical disfluencies are what we associate with stuttering.
When Speech Therapy is Recommended
Some young kids go through a period of development when they exhibit frequent examples of both more and less typical disfluencies. Therapy typically isn’t recommended for these children because we expect them to outgrow the speech behavior.
Signs That Therapy May Be Needed
If a few of the following is true about a child, we might recommend starting therapy: The child was older than three years when the stuttering started, demonstrating regular occurrences of less typical disfluencies, has a family history of stuttering, or seems anxious when stuttering occurs.
Starting Therapy Early
Starting therapy early when stuttering concerns arise is one of the best ways to help kids master easy, smooth talking.
Conclusion
Reach out today to talk about any questions you may have regarding speech therapy for stuttering concerns!