The disadvantaged child often lacks speech/language skills. At least a third of lower income children require individual speech sessions in order to present themselves favorably to adults. In the speech class the children work on articulation, verbal skills, and language.

When a child has a language delay, talking about a story is a popular approach to improving a child's language. Children with speech disorders frequently perform at an insufficient academic level, struggle with reading, have difficulty understanding and expressing language. Speech therapy twice a week helps children become effective communicators and achieve self-esteem. The children benefit from a more successful and satisfying educational experience because of speech sessions.