Stuttering can be a difficult challenge for children, especially when it begins to affect confidence, classroom participation, or social interactions. While every child’s journey is unique, one of the most effective approaches for improving speech fluency is fluency shaping therapy.
At Vero Speech Therapy, I specialize in helping children develop clearer, more confident communication through evidence-based methods like fluency shaping. Here’s what parents should know about this therapy and how it can make a lasting difference.
What Is Fluency Shaping Therapy?
Fluency shaping is a structured speech therapy technique designed to help individuals who stutter produce smoother, more fluent speech. Unlike some therapies that focus primarily on managing moments of stuttering, fluency shaping trains children to use new speaking patterns consistently.
The therapy focuses on changing the way speech is physically produced by teaching techniques such as:
- Slower speech rate – learning to slow down words and phrases to reduce tension.
- Gentle voice onsets – starting words with softer vocal fold movement.
- Smooth transitions – connecting sounds and syllables more fluidly.
- Controlled breathing – using steady airflow to support fluency.
Over time, these skills become more natural, helping children speak more comfortably in everyday situations.
How Fluency Shaping Therapy Helps
1. Reduces Stuttering Frequency
By practicing new speech patterns, children learn strategies that reduce moments of stuttering and make speech easier.
2. Builds Confidence in Communication
Fluency shaping doesn’t just improve mechanics—it helps children feel more confident when speaking at school, at home, or with friends.
3. Provides Structure and Consistency
The structured approach gives children clear tools they can apply in real conversations, making progress measurable and rewarding.
4. Encourages Long-Term Change
When practiced consistently, fluency shaping can create lasting improvements in speech fluency and reduce the frustration often associated with stuttering.
Supporting Your Child at Home
Parents play a vital role in the success of fluency shaping therapy. You can help by:
- Encouraging slow, relaxed conversation at home.
- Modeling calm, patient listening without interrupting.
- Praising effort, not just fluency, to keep motivation high.
- Incorporating practice into daily routines through reading, storytelling, or play.
Giving Your Child the Tools for Clearer Speech
Stuttering doesn’t have to hold your child back. With the right support, children can learn strategies that make communication easier and more enjoyable. Fluency shaping therapy provides structured tools to reduce stuttering and build lifelong confidence in speaking.
👉 If you’re concerned about your child’s speech fluency, Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Pamela Cerrato at Vero Speech Therapy. Together, we’ll create a plan that helps your child speak with clarity and confidence.
