Toddler stuttering can be a source of concern for many parents. It often appears when children are developing their language skills, which is usually between the ages of 2 and 5. While many children outgrow this phase, some may benefit from early intervention to help manage stuttering. Syllable-timed speech (STS) therapy, also known as beat speech, is one such treatment that focuses on producing speech with an even and controlled flow.
Syllable-timed speech treatment is a simple approach that helps children speak with an even rhythm for each syllable, reducing the uneven speech patterns linked to stuttering. Practicing this technique can help children gain better control over their speech, leading to smoother talking. This method can be used both in therapy sessions and at home, making it a flexible option for parents who want to support their child’s speech development.
Key Takeaways
- Stuttering usually emerges in preschool years during language development.
- Syllable-timed speech treatment aims to increase fluency.
- Parents can practice this treatment method at home with their child.
Understanding Toddler Stuttering
Toddler stuttering during the early years of speech development can be a source of concern for parents. Recognizing the signs and understanding the treatment options, such as syllable-timed speech, are crucial first steps.
Identifying Stuttering in Children
You may notice that your toddler repeats syllables, prolongs sounds, or has speech blocks. These are common indicators of stuttering, especially if they occur frequently and disrupt communication. It’s natural to wonder, “How do I know if my preschooler is stuttering?” Watch for signs like difficulty starting a word, tension or frustration when speaking, and facial or body movements associated with the effort to talk.
Syllable-Timed Speech Therapy
Basics of Syllable-Timed Speech Therapy
What is Syllable-Timed Speech? Syllable-timed speech is a therapeutic technique where you emphasize each syllable in a word at an equal rate and with equal stress. It’s like tapping to a steady beat while speaking. This can help reduce stuttering by promoting rhythmic and fluent speech.
For example, take the sentence “I want to go outside.” In syllable-timed speech, you would break it down into even units: “I – want – to – go – out – side,” and speak each part with the same amount of time. This deliberate pattern can promote smoother, more fluent speech.
- The goal is to work towards speaking at a near-normal rate.
- Speech pathologists begin with demonstrations, imitation, and practice.
- Home practice sessions are encouraged 4-6 times per day for 5-10 minutes.
- Reduce practice sessions in stage two of the program.
- Programming may continue for 9-12 months.
- Adults always model syllable-timed speech during practice blocks.
Syllable-timed speech is a well-researched technique shown to be highly effective for toddler stuttering. In a 2011 study by Trajkovski et al., eight preschool children practiced this method for 5-10 minutes, five times a day for one year, and their stuttering decreased by 96%.
Implementing Techniques at Home for Toddler Stuttering
Bringing syllable-timed speech therapy into your home isn’t just effective; it’s a way to integrate treatment into your child’s daily routine. The focus is on creating a nurturing space and engaging in specific activities that promote fluency.
Creating a Supportive Environment
To reinforce the strategies learned in therapy, first, build a calming environment where your child feels comfortable practicing speech. Reduce distractions and keep your tone light and positive. Encourage everyone in the household to be patient listeners, giving your child the time they need to express themselves without pressure.
- Reduce Interruptions: Make sure others wait for their turn to talk.
- Slow Down: Model slower speaking patterns yourself to reduce the pace of conversation.
- Establish Routines: Create opportunities to practice syllable-timed speech 4-6 times a day for 5-10 minutes.
Exercises and Activities for Home for Toddler Stuttering
Integrating syllable-timed speech into play can make practice enjoyable. Below are exercises and activities you can easily do at home:
Tapping Games: Encourage your child to clap or tap with each syllable as they speak to create a rhythm. Some children like to use an object like a drum or shaker to mark syllables while others enjoy dropping a block in a bucket to make a rhythm.
Singing Songs: Many children’s songs naturally emphasize syllable-timed speech.
- “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”
- “The Wheels on the Bus”
- “If You’re Happy and You Know it”
Book readings: Practice tapping syllables while reading books that encourage rhythms:
- Brown Bear by Bill Martin and Eric Carle
- Polar Bear by Bill Martin and Eric Carle
- It Looked Like Spilt Milk by Charles Shaw
Try these methods daily, ensuring consistent practice without the structure feeling rigid. Your support at home can significantly enhance the progress made during therapy sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find clear answers to common queries about syllable-timed speech therapy for preschool children who stutter, helping to clarify how this treatment works and its effectiveness.
Can you define syllable-timed speech therapy?
Syllable-timed speech therapy is a technique where you speak with consistent time and stress across syllables, aiming to reduce stuttering. It simplifies the rhythm of speech, making it easier for children who stutter to maintain fluent speech.
What’s the best way to address stuttering in young children?
Early intervention is key for young children. Combining indirect approaches like creating a supportive speaking environment with direct strategies like syllable-timed speech can make a significant difference in overcoming stuttering.
How does syllable repetition play a role in stuttering treatment?
Syllable repetition is a hallmark of stuttering that syllable-timed speech therapy addresses by teaching children to produce syllables at a measured pace, which can reduce occurrences of repetition and improve fluency.
Are there specific strategies within syllable-timed speech that benefit preschoolers with stuttering issues?
Yes, specific strategies such as modeling slow and rhythmic speech and using visual or tactile cues can aid preschoolers in learning the rhythm of syllable-timed speech, which helps manage their stuttering.
What are the success rates for using syllable-timed therapy with preschool stuttering?
Success rates can vary, but studies have shown that syllable-timed speech can be effective, especially when tailored to individual children and consistently practiced with the support of a speech therapist and family.
Nanette Cote is an ASHA certified speech pathologist, published author, and private practice business owner with 30 years experience.
