Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences

Robert G. Combs Language Preschool

The MU Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences operates the Robert G. Combs Language Preschool with the generous support of the Scottish Rite. Established in fall 2000, this clinical program serves children ages 2 to 5 years with speech and language difficulties.

A state-licensed, nationally certified speech-language pathologist directs the program and supervises Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences seniors and graduate students who participate in the program as clinicians-in-training. Students have clinical responsibilities commensurate with their stage of development and clinical knowledge.

Parents/caregivers are expected to remain on site while their child is in the Language Preschool. An observation area is available, and there are several waiting areas within the College of Health Sciences.

We hope you will consider enrolling if your child is 2-5 years of age and you have concerns about their speech and language development. Treatment is in a group setting, providing a communication-rich environment to address speech and language needs. Areas of focus include improving vocabulary, length and complexity of utterances, speech intelligibility and emergent literacy skills. Some participants in this program receive additional, individual treatment through our department’s Speech and Hearing Clinic.

Student sits on the floor with preschoolers while administering therapy
At the Robert G. Combs Language Preschool, students participate as clinicians-in-training in a clinical program serving children with speech and language difficulties under the direct supervision of clinical faculty with certification and state licensure in speech-language pathology.

Additional benefits

  • Low clinician-to-child ratio, typically one clinician for every one to two students.
  • The communication and social skills focus of this clinical program, benefiting children with speech and language difficulties.
  • Scholarships are available based on need.
  • Individual therapy is also available.
  • Easy access: We are located in 137 Clark Hall at Providence and Rollins Roads.

Apply online

Hours

  • Toddler Group (2-3 years old) meets on Tuesday/Thursday, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
  • Preschool Group (3-5 years old) meet on Monday/Wednesday, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. OR Tuesday/Thursday, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
  • Fall, Spring and Summer semesters

Location

The Robert G. Combs Language Preschool is located on the first floor of Clark Hall on the University of Missouri campus.
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Phone: 573-882-8538

Fax Number: 573-884-8686

For more information please contact:
Christi Baker, MS, Preschool Director

Faculty, students and staff actively follow the University of Missouri’s nondiscrimination policy.

The Robert G. Combs Language Preschool was established and is supported by the Scottish Rite Masons of Columbia. The Scottish Rite supports speech and language clinics throughout the country that provide clinical services for children.

Logo for Rite Care of the Scottish Rite Masons