Cleft treatment during the school-aged years (ages five to 12) varies with each child. Some children undergo one or two operations during the school-aged years, while others undergo fewer or more. Some children need speech therapy while others do not. And some children need help with issues related to hearing, dental health, and social situations. Because each child is unique, their treatment must be individualized.

When your child’s care is followed by a team of cleft experts, all the aspects of their care will be coordinated—and trips to the operating room can therefore be minimized. Members of your child’s cleft team will help you identify and address any issues your child might have.