Stuttering Fluency

What is stuttering and fluency?

Stuttering (also called a fluency difference) shows up when a child has trouble getting words out smoothly. You might notice repeated sounds or syllables ("b-b-ball"), stretched sounds, or moments where speech feels stuck or blocked. These patterns are common in young children as speech and language grow, but for some kids the differences last longer or cause worry, frustration, or changes in how they join in at home, school, or with friends.

Why this matters

How a child talks affects more than just words. When speaking is hard or unpredictable, children may avoid talking, feel embarrassed, miss out on class participation, or withdraw at play. Early, supportive help can teach communication skills, reduce stress around speaking, and build confidence — not by forcing perfection, but by helping children feel more comfortable and effective when they talk.

What therapy and coaching focus on

Therapy is personalized to your child’s age, strengths, and daily life. For infants and toddlers, sessions often focus on caregiver strategies that make conversations relaxed and supportive. For older children and teens, therapy may include practice with easier speech patterns, learning to manage moments of disfluency, and working on confidence and communication in real-life situations. Families get practical tools they can use at home and at school.

What to expect in a typical program

  • Friendly intake and listening: We begin by hearing your story, observing speech in natural play or conversation, and talking about how stuttering affects daily life.
  • Child-centered sessions: Therapy uses play, games, reading, and age-appropriate activities so learning feels natural, not forced.
  • Caregiver coaching: Parents and caregivers learn simple ways to respond to disfluency, create low-pressure speaking opportunities, and reinforce progress at home.
  • Skill building: We teach strategies that help a child speak with more ease, support confidence, and reduce avoidance — always adapted to the child’s age and comfort level.
  • Collaboration: We can share strategies with teachers or other professionals so the child gets consistent support across settings.

When to consider support

  • You notice frequent repetitions, long pauses, or seeming blocks when your child speaks.
  • Your child is avoiding talking in certain situations or seems anxious about speaking.
  • Speech patterns have not changed much for several months and are affecting play, school, or friendships.
  • You want coaching on how to respond in calm, helpful ways and support progress at home.

How we help

  • Create a warm, low-pressure environment for practice and conversation.
  • Coach caregivers in everyday strategies to support fluent, confident talking.
  • Use age-appropriate activities to teach gentle speech skills and reduce avoidance.
  • Work with schools and other adults to keep support consistent across settings.

Every child is different. Therapy focuses on practical, positive steps you can use day-to-day, with clear explanations so you know what to try and why. If you have questions about your child’s speaking or want to explore what help might look like, we’re happy to talk through options and next steps.