Is stuttering normal in toddlers?

Some disfluency is normal between ages 2-5 as children develop language. However, if stuttering lasts longer than 6 months, is getting worse, or includes physical tension, a speech-language evaluation is recommended.

When should I be concerned about my child's stuttering?

Seek evaluation if stuttering persists beyond 6 months, if your child shows physical tension or struggle behaviors, if they avoid speaking situations, or if there is a family history of stuttering. Early intervention before age 5 is most effective.

What causes stuttering in children?

Stuttering has a neurological basis and often runs in families. It is not caused by anxiety, parenting, or intelligence. About 5% of children stutter at some point, and approximately 1% continue into adulthood without treatment.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept Sutter HMO, Kaiser, Cigna, Blue Shield PPO, Western Health Advantage, and North Bay Regional Center for children ages 0-3.

How effective is stuttering therapy for children?

Early intervention for stuttering is highly effective, particularly before age 5. Evidence-based approaches like the Lidcombe Program show significant improvement in the majority of young children. Older children also benefit from strategies to manage and reduce stuttering.

Stuttering Therapy for Children — Dixon, CA

Signs of Stuttering in Children

Stuttering can look different at different ages. If you notice any of the following patterns, an evaluation can determine the best course of action.

Sound and Syllable Repetitions

Repeating the first sound or syllable of words (“b-b-b-ball,” “mo-mo-mommy”), especially with visible effort or tension.

Prolongations and Blocks

Stretching sounds out (“ssssnake”) or getting stuck with mouth open and no sound coming out. These are signs of more developed stuttering.

Physical Tension

Visible effort in the face, jaw, or neck when speaking. Eye blinking, head movements, or other secondary behaviors that accompany speech attempts.

Avoidance and Frustration

Avoiding speaking situations, substituting words, saying “I can’t say it,” or showing frustration or embarrassment about their speech.

What Therapy Involves

Stuttering therapy uses evidence-based approaches tailored to your child’s age, severity, and individual needs.

Comprehensive fluency evaluation to assess stuttering type, frequency, and impact
Age-appropriate treatment (e.g., Lidcombe Program for preschoolers, fluency shaping for older children)
Strategies to reduce tension and increase smooth speech
Building communication confidence and reducing avoidance
Parent education on supporting fluency at home

What Families Say

“Our son was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 4. The first services we received was speech therapy as he was unable to express himself. We were lucky enough to have been paired with Stacey. Our son has been in speech therapy for almost a year now and has improved so much. He is always excited to go see Mrs. Stacey. We are forever grateful.”

— Lopez Family, Dixon, CA

“STC helped me ease my daughter into attending sessions independently instead of needing me to accompany her to every session, which has given her more confidence. My daughter looks forward to her therapy every week. We’ve experienced other speech therapy service providers and STC is by far our favorite. It feels like a second home.”

— Ann & Rose, Vacaville, CA

Take the First Step

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your child’s fluency.

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