Pediatric Speech Therapy for Fluency Disorders
For children with fluency disorders, speaking clearly and confidently can be difficult. Children who struggle with fluency can have a hard time explaining their thoughts, answering questions in school, or even making new friends.
At Fluens Children's Therapy, our skilled Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) provide expert support to help children learn to speak more fluently. With routine therapy, we can empower your child to share their ideas effectively for a lifetime of successful communication.
What Is a Fluency Disorder?
A fluency disorder is a condition where the flow of speech is interrupted. Speaking clearly and smoothly from the beginning to the end of a sentence is called fluency. Speaking with pauses, repetitions of sounds or syllables, or other involuntary interruptions between the beginning and end of a sentence is called disfluency.
Stuttering is one of the most recognized types of fluency disorders, but there are several variations, and each affects speech in unique ways. Fluency disorders can cause a child to feel anxious about speaking and may impact their ability to make new friends or participate in school.
Common Signs of a Fluency Disorder in Children
Children with fluency disorders often have specific speech patterns that can interfere with smooth, easy communication. Some common signs of a fluency disorder include:
- Repeating sounds, syllables, or words (e.g., “b-b-ball”)
- Prolonging sounds (e.g., “mmmmilk”)
- Speaking with an atypical rhythm or rate of speed
- Using filler words or pausing excessively
- Struggling when trying to speak
- Avoiding having to speak due to embarrassment or frustration
- Rapid speech that sounds “cluttered” or hard to follow
What Causes a Fluency Disorder in Children?
The causes of fluency disorders are not fully understood, but experts believe that several factors may contribute, including:
- Family history of speech or language disorders
- Differences in brain processing related to speech and language
- Developmental delays
- Environmental or emotional stress factors
How Pediatric Speech Therapy Can Help Children with a Fluency Disorder
At Fluens Children's Therapy, we provide specialized interventions that address each child’s unique fluency needs. Our skilled Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) will start with an evaluation to determine what type of fluency disorder your child has and how it is affecting their speech, language, and social skills.
Next, we’ll put together a therapy plan designed to meet your child’s specific needs. This plan will include evidence-based strategies and activities designed to be fun and engaging for your child. We focus on techniques that make communication easier and less stressful to create a positive and supportive environment for your child’s development.
Reach Out Today to Get Started
If your child seems to be struggling with speech fluency, Fluens Children's Therapy is here to help. We’ll work with you and your child to help them build the confidence they need for smooth, effective speech.
Reach out to our team in University Place, WA, at (253) 212-3502 or our team in Columbia, TN, at (931) 982-6092 to schedule an evaluation today.