Stuttering is a speech disorder characterized by repetitions of sounds, syllables, words, or prolongations of sounds and interruptions in speech known as blocks. Stuttering can be more than just dysfluencies. Stuttering may also include tension, negative feelings about talking and may even get in the way of how a student talks with others.

Treatment of stuttering is crucial as there could be many negative effects that significantly impact a student’s ability to participate in school and social activities. If stuttering is left not addressed or untreated, the student may have difficulties with learning to speak clearly, self-esteem and confidence, as well as bullying.

This workshop will focus on giving you a better understanding of stuttering and ideas on how to approach treatment. There is no one specific treatment option for the student who stutters, and the goals and treatment plans should be developed based upon each student’s speaking, social, emotional and mental needs. Often treatment is a collaborative approach involving the speech-language pathologist, classroom teacher, psychologist, social worker, parents, and others.