Lidcombe Program Treatment at BubbleBee Children Speech Therapy
Welcome to BubbleBee Children Speech Therapy. We provide Lidcombe Program Treatment for young children who stutter, delivered in a supportive, structured, and family-centred way.
The Lidcombe Program is an evidence-based treatment developed specifically for early stuttering. It is designed for young children and focuses on reducing stuttered speech through positive, everyday interactions between parent and child, guided by a trained speech therapist.
At BubbleBee, we support children who experience early stuttering, as well as families who are unsure whether their child’s speech patterns require intervention or monitoring.
What the Lidcombe Program Is and How It Helps
The Lidcombe program is a speech fluency intervention created for young children who stutter. It is widely recognised in speech pathology as an evidence-based treatment with strong clinical outcomes when started early.
Unlike clinic-only therapy, this approach is a parent-conducted treatment. Parents learn how to provide structured verbal feedback during everyday conversations, play, and routines. The goal is to reduce stuttered speech while keeping communication natural and positive.
This treatment plan targets children’s stuttered speech gently and systematically, without asking the child to consciously control or monitor their speech.
Who the Lidcombe Program Is Designed For
This treatment is typically recommended for:
- Young children who stutter, usually in the preschool years
- Children showing signs of early stuttering rather than long-standing speech difficulties
- Families who are able to take an active role in daily communication practice
Age, severity, and speech patterns are considered carefully before recommending this treatment. Not every child who stutters (i.e. developmental stuttering) needs immediate therapy, which is why assessment is a key first step.
How Lidcombe Program Treatment Works
The treatment works by:
- Training parents to give specific, supportive verbal feedback.
- Reducing stuttered speech gradually over time.
- Tracking progress using severity ratings
- Adjusting strategies based on the child’s response.
Sessions are typically held weekly at the beginning, with parents practising the techniques at home. The therapist monitors progress closely and guides adjustments to the treatment plan.
Assessment Before Starting the Program
Before beginning Lidcombe Program Treatment, a comprehensive assessment is conducted. This ensures the approach is appropriate for the child and that families understand what the program involves.
What the Assessment Looks At
- Speech fluency and stuttering patterns
- Language development and communication skills
- Family history of stuttering
- Child’s age and stage of development
- Parent readiness for a parent-guided therapy approach
This assessment helps determine whether early stuttering is likely to resolve naturally or whether intervention is recommended.
The Two Stages of the Lidcombe Program
Stage One - Reducing Stuttered Speech
Stage One focuses on reducing the frequency and severity of stuttering. Parents provide verbal feedback in short, planned conversations, guided by the speech therapist.
Progress is measured carefully, and therapy continues until stuttering is significantly reduced or no longer present.
Stage Two - Maintaining Progress
Stage Two helps maintain fluency gains over time. Therapy sessions become less frequent, while parents continue to monitor speech patterns.
This stage is important for ensuring long-term stability and preventing relapse.
The Parent’s Role in Treatment
Parents are guided to:
- Use verbal feedback appropriately
- Keep communication positive and pressure-free
- Integrate practice naturally into daily routines
This collaborative approach allows therapy to fit into real life rather than relying only on clinic sessions.
Speech Therapists and Clinical Oversight
At BubbleBee, the Lidcombe Program is overseen by Ms. Agnieszka Debowska, Senior Speech-Language therapist certified in Lidcombe Stuttering Intervention.
Her role includes:
- Conducting assessment and treatment planning
- Coaching parents through each stage
- Monitoring progress and adjusting strategies
- Ensuring therapy remains evidence-based and child-centred
Families benefit from consistent guidance and clear explanations throughout the therapy process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lidcombe Program suitable for all children who stutter?
Not always. While the Lidcombe Program is effective for many young children, some children benefit from monitoring or alternative approaches. Assessment helps determine suitability.
How long does Lidcombe-based therapy usually take?
Duration varies depending on severity, consistency of practice, and individual response. Some children progress quickly, while others require longer support across stages.
Will my child be aware that they are being treated?
The program is designed to feel natural and supportive. Children are not asked to analyse their speech or practise drills. Feedback is brief and integrated into everyday conversation.
What if my child resists feedback?
Speech pathologists adjust strategies carefully. If a child shows discomfort or resistance, the treatment plan is modified to maintain a positive communication environment.
Can the Lidcombe Program be combined with other speech therapy?
In some cases, yes. If a child has additional language or speech needs, therapy may be adapted accordingly, with careful clinical planning.
Starting Lidcombe Program Treatment in Singapore
If your child is showing signs of early stuttering and you are exploring Lidcombe Program Treatment, BubbleBee Children Speech Therapy Singapore can guide you through the process with clarity and care.
We begin with assessment, explain findings in plain language, and recommend next steps that suit your child and family.
Contact us to learn more or to schedule an assessment.
