As a Special Education Director, you are constantly seeking ways to improve the lives of students who stutter. The research article titled Treatment Effectiveness for School Age Children Who Stutter by Sarah M. Smits-Bandstra and William S. Yovetich offers valuable insights that can help you refine your approach to stuttering therapy.
The study assessed the efficacy of treatment for five school-aged children who stutter, with a focus on both behavioral and attitudinal changes. The outcomes showed that children who received therapy exhibited moderate improvements in fluency and speech attitudes compared to those who did not receive treatment.
Key Takeaways for Practitioners
- Combination Therapy Works: The study highlighted the effectiveness of a combined cognitive-behavioral therapy approach. This involves addressing both the speech mechanics and the negative attitudes associated with stuttering.
- Importance of Attitude: Attitude change was found to be crucial for long-term success. Tools like the Communication Attitude Test-Revised (CAT-R) can help measure and improve speech attitudes.
- Parental Involvement: Engaging parents in the therapy process through group counseling sessions and homework assignments can significantly enhance treatment outcomes.
- Follow-Up is Essential: Regular follow-up sessions and continuous support are vital for maintaining the gains achieved during therapy. Consider implementing a phased approach to reduce the likelihood of relapse.
Practical Implementation
Here are some actionable steps you can take based on the research findings:
- Incorporate both cognitive and behavioral techniques in your therapy programs.
- Use attitude measurement tools like the CAT-R to track progress.
- Involve parents actively in the therapy process.
- Ensure regular follow-up sessions to sustain treatment gains.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve the effectiveness of stuttering treatment for school-aged children. This research underscores the importance of a holistic approach that addresses both the mechanical and emotional aspects of stuttering.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Treatment Effectiveness for School Age Children Who Stutter
