Treatment
There are different treatment options, however many are not evidence-based. This means that they do not have research and statistics to support their effectiveness. The most widely accepted and recommended treatment for pre-school children is the Lidcombe Program. This program has been shown to be effective through scientific studies that have demonstrated successful results lasting long after treatment has been concluded 12,14.
The Lidcombe Program is a parent-based program which is most effective for preschool and early primary school-age children. The program focuses
on reinforcement and rewards and requires that the parents spend time each day talking with their child. During weekly visits
to a Speech Pathologist, the parent learns how to carry out the treatment and rate the child’s speech performance each day. The Speech Pathologist
supports, monitors the child’s progress, gives parental feedback and adjusts the program to meet the individual child’s needs.
The Lidcombe Program promotes fluent speech while maintaining and developing a child’s confidence in speaking 14,3. The time taken to complete the treatment differs between children, the average is 11 visits, with a range of 6-24 visits 4. After the initial treatment phase, children are placed on a maintenance program. The maintenance stage of the Lidcombe Program ensures that fluency is maintained. Treatment for young children is fun and based around enjoyable activities.
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