Stuttering, also called dysfluencies, is a communication disorder that affects the fluent production of speech.  It is characterized by an interruption in the normal flow of speech (the production of sounds, words, phrases and sentences).  These interruptions in the normal flow of speech can be repetitions (ha, ha, happy; I want, I want, I want to go too.), prolongations (cccccat) and blocks (airflow is stopped and the child struggles to release the air for the sounds and words).  It is common for children between the ages of 3-5 years old to have minor dysfluencies when they speak.  However, if your child’s dysfluencies increase or you have concerns about it, you should contact a speech-language pathologist. 

Internet Links: 

The Stuttering Foundation of America (7 Tips for Parents)