The disadvantaged child often has some delay in speech/language skills. At least a third of lower income children should have individual speech therapy in order to present themselves favorably to adults. In the speech class the children work on articulation, verbal skills, and language concepts.

Children with speech disorders frequently perform at an insufficient academic level, struggle with reading, have difficulty understanding and expressing language. Speech therapy helps children become effective communicators and achieve self-esteem. The children benefit from a more successful and satisfying educational experience because of speech therapy.