Everyone stutters or stammers once in a while. For example, you might stumble over your words when you’re especially nervous or excited. If a child stutters on a fairly regular basis, though, nerves and excitement probably have little to do with it. Fortunately, speech therapy can help. Here, the friendly team at All For Kids Pediatric Therapy Clinic in Anchorage, AK, explains when parents should consider enrolling their children in speech therapy. 

When the Stuttering Persists

It’s normal for anyone to stutter occasionally. In fact, 5-10% of all children go through a short developmental stage during which they stutter for some period of time. Stuttering can sound like repeating sounds or words, prolonging sounds, or interruptions in speech known as “blocks.”  

Many of these cases will spontaneously resolve; however, if your child’s stutter persists for more than six months, it could indicate an  underlying speech impediment. Other commonly noted “red flags” that warrant a speech evaluation include: being 3-5 years old, being male, having an immediate family member who stutters, and having other speech or language delays. A stutter that worsens or remains constant even as your child hones his or her language skills warrants speech therapy. 

When There May Be Other Issues at Play

Stuttering can stem from various causes, such as trauma or a hereditary link. If your child exhibits any signs of a speech or language disorder, it’s worth visiting a professional for diagnosis and treatment. In such scenarios, early intervention is often essential for helping children develop the tools needed to overcome the disorder. If left untreated—or addressed too late, the result could be a stutter that lasts into adolescence and even adulthood. Comprehension issues, like trouble following directions, can be a sign of a speech or language disorder, as can using a limited vocabulary and struggling to tell simple stories.

If you think your child could benefit from speech or language therapy, turn to All For Kids Pediatric Therapy Clinic. Based in Anchorage, this practice helps children reach various developmental milestones. Their team is comprised of certified therapists who stay up-to-date on all of the latest techniques in their fields. In addition to speech therapy, customized services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and various auxiliary therapies like sensory integration and listening programs. To request more information, visit their website or call (907) 345-0050.