Speech and Language Development in Children Who Stutter

STUDY BASICS

Are you the parent of a child aged 7-12 who currently stutters? Your child may be able to participate in a research study to learn more about how speech and language skills develop and mature in the brain. This study will involve 2-3 sessions, each lasting about 2.5-3 hours. Eligible participants are native English speakers. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to learn more about how speech and language skills develop and change over time in children who stutter.  The goal of this research is to better understand stuttering and possibly lead to better ways to support people with communication disorders in the future.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?

• Ages 7-12
• Currently stutter (an official diagnosis of stuttering is not required)
• English was child’s first language learned
• General good health
• No significant hearing difficulties
• No history of neurological problems

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

The study involves 2-3 in-person visits lasting about 2.5-3 hours each. Study procedures involve tabletop testing and recording your child’s brain activity with electroencephalography (EEG) while playing games, looking at pictures, and listening or speaking. The EEG procedure, which uses a special cap, like a swim cap, with electrodes sewn in, is safe, painless, non-invasive, and drug-free. Parents will be asked to complete a set of questionnaires about their child.