Understanding Stuttering

Have you ever noticed your child repeating sounds? Or maybe they get "stuck" on words? This may be a sign that your child has a fluency disorder, like stuttering. However, be aware that there is a difference between stuttering and typical disfluencies.

Typical Disfluencies vs. Stuttering

We all experience typical disfluencies in our day to day lives. ASHA explains that a typical disfluency is when an "individual may hesitate when speaking, use filler words (e.g., "like or "uh"), or repeat a word or phrase," whereas, those who stutter "may repeat parts of words, stretch a sound out for a long time, or get stuck before starting a word or in the middle of saying a word."

Signs to Look For

Some signs to look for when it comes to a child stuttering include:

• part-word repetitions

• sound prolongations

• broken up words

• long silent and audible prolongations

• Negative emotions/feelings

• Avoidance behavior (they avoid speaking if possible)

How can I help my child?

First off, I would look into speech therapy. Speech therapy will help your child more than anything if they struggle with stuttering.

Some things you can do at home, along with speech therapy, to help your child could include:

• Encourage your child to talk slower. Stuttering often occurs more often when the child is trying to speak quickly.

• Practice relaxation techniques, like breathing exercises. Stress/anxiety often makes the stuttering worse.

• Avoid interrupting or correcting.

• Avoid asking your child too many questions. This can increase their stress/anxiety.

• Listen carefully and keep a positive environment.

Final Thoughts

Stuttering can feel a bit overwhelming, for both parent and child, but just remember that you are not alone, and that there is support. Early intervention mixed with some help at home can make all the difference in your child’s confidence and communication. Trust your instincts, seek professional help when needed, and most of all, make sure that your child knows that their voice matters!

References

https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/stuttering/