The Westmead Program is a treatment approach aimed at reducing stuttering in children. It involves the active participation of parents in helping their child overcome stuttering by using Syllable-Timed Speech (STS) techniques. Here are some key points about the program:
- Syllable-Timed Speech (STS): STS is a technique where syllables are spoken in a rhythmic beat with similar stress on each syllable. It helps children slow down their speech rate and improve fluency. Parents are taught how to use STS techniques through demonstration, imitation, and practice.
- Severity Ratings (SR): Parents are required to rate their child's stuttering using a numerical scale from 0 (no stuttering) to 9 (extremely severe stuttering). These ratings are done daily during each week to track the child's progress. The ratings help Speech Pathologists modify the treatment plan as needed.
- Treatment Stages: The Westmead Program consists of two stages:
- Stage 1: Parents work with a certified Speech Pathologist to develop a schedule and receive training in SR and STS techniques. They are encouraged to practice STS with their child 4-6 times a day for 5-10 minutes each time. Weekly meetings with the Speech Pathologist assess progress.
- Stage 2: Once specific criteria are met, the child progresses to this stage. Here, the Speech Pathologist helps parents gradually reduce STS practice sessions. Weekly SR ratings continue, and if stuttering increases, parents reintroduce STS practice. Stage 2 continues until the child has sustained minimal stuttering for at least a year.
- Integration into Daily Life: STS practice can occur in various everyday situations, such as at the dinner table, during reading, play activities, meal preparation, or while driving in the car.
- Comparison with the Oakville Program: While both the Westmead and Oakville Programs use STS techniques for young children, the Oakville Program incorporates parent verbal contingencies, providing positive feedback when a child speaks stutter-free or self-corrects their stutter. This is a key difference from the Westmead Program.
Overall, the Westmead Program is a comprehensive approach involving parents in the treatment of stuttering in children, focusing on improving fluency through STS techniques and regular severity ratings to monitor progress.
