If your child has recently started to stutter, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. Because it can significantly impact their development and confidence, it’s important to speak with a professional right away. Sounds of Success: Preschool and Learning Center in Aiea, HI, is the only daycare and preschool in the area offering speech therapy for kids from a speech-language pathologist. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions they receive from parents.

Stuttering & Speech Therapy for Kids Explained

What Is Stuttering?

Stuttering is a communication disorder characterized by repeated or long sounds or abnormal breaks in speech. Children who stutter may also exhibit unusual body movements or facial expressions as they attempt to speak.

Is It Genetic?

Genetics do play a role in the chances of a child stuttering. About 60% of children who stutter also have a family member with the communication disorder. There are other factors that may cause the disorder, however, like developmental delays and neurophysiology.

How Many Children Stutter?

Over three million people in the US stutter and it affects about 5% of all children. Of those kids, three quarters will eventually learn to speak without a stutter, leaving about 1% with a long-term problem. Boys are four times as likely to stutter as girls.

Does Stress or Trauma Cause It?

Stuttering has not been linked to emotional or psychological problems. However, children who grow up in a fast-paced environment with high expectations may be more likely to develop the disorder than others.

Will My Child Always Stutter?

Very few children continue to stutter later in life. To give your child the best chance of overcoming the problem, seek intervention once you notice the signs. Speech therapy for kids is more effective the earlier it can begin.

If you’re searching for a daycare or preschool that also offers speech therapy for kids, turn to Sounds of Success: Preschool and Learning Center. They also have childcare services and a well-rounded curriculum so your child receives top care and education. Visit their website or call (808) 488-2211 to inquire about enrollment and tuition.