This presentation will delve into the unique speech behaviors and linguistic factors associated with stuttering in individuals with Down syndrome. Drawing from current research, participant insights and clinical experiences, we will explore the potential causes, behavioral characteristics, daily impact, and discuss strategies for managing stuttering in this population.
 
Learning Objectives:
Participants will:
1.     Explore the potential underlying mechanisms of stuttering in individuals with Down syndrome, including links to genetic, neurological, and developmental factors.
2.     Identify common characteristics of stuttering in this population, such as repetitions, prolongations, and blocks, and how these differ from the general population.
3.     Recognize the impact of stuttering on communication and social interactions for individuals with Down syndrome, including the influence of concomitant speech and language issues.
4.     Discuss ways to support individuals with Down syndrome who stutter, including techniques for creating a supportive communication environment and addressing specific linguistic challenges.

Target Audience: Speech-Language Pathologists, Graduate Students

Bio: Emily Lowther, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, CPSP lectures at Curtin University (Australia). She is currently investigating the speech fluency profiles of people with Down syndrome. Her goals include updating and quantifying speech norms for the Down syndrome population, understanding the mechanisms driving higher rates of stuttering, exploring perspectives of stuttering from people with Down syndrome, and developing new therapeutic guidelines to support them to speak with greater ease and confidence.