Screening of Preschool Children (2;0–5;11) for the Risk of Persistent Stuttering – Practical Application of Logotest 4
Abstract
Early identification of preschool children at risk of persistent stuttering is a key component of prevention and early speech-language intervention. In clinical practice, this is particularly important because the aim of screening in this age group is not solely to make a categorical diagnosis, but primarily to assess the risk of symptom persistence and to determine whether further monitoring, comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, or early speech-language intervention is warranted. Although developmental speech disfluencies resolve spontaneously in many children, in some cases they persist and may negatively affect the child’s communicative, emotional, and social functioning, as well as family well-being.
The aim of this article is to present the practical application of LogoTest 4, a free screening tool designed to assess the risk of persistent stuttering in children aged 2;0–5;11. LogoTest 4 is an online screening instrument that combines a parent-report questionnaire with a structured, brief speech assessment conducted by a speech-language pathologist. The parental questionnaire is available in several language versions and can be completed either during an appointment or remotely. The entire procedure enables the systematic collection of information on risk factors for persistent stuttering.
The article also presents the use of the parental questionnaire in a case study of a 4.5-year-old girl, illustrating how LogoTest 4 can be applied in the screening process, in identifying risk factors for persistent stuttering, and in guiding decisions regarding further diagnostic assessment, monitoring, or early intervention in accordance with current recommendations based on evidence-based practice principles.
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