Stuttering is a speech difficulty that includes repeating words or syllables during the course of conversation. It can range from mild to severe and usually starts in childhood. Some people stutter through adulthood, especially when they are under stress. Most children outgrow stuttering before they are 5 years old. There are some things that you can do to help a child who stutters.
Be Patient
Children often begin stuttering in toddlerhood, and it may continue throughout childhood. Many children will stop stuttering on their own after several weeks or months. In the meantime, it's important to be patient with your child. Do not interrupt your child or criticize him for stuttering. Refrain from offering advice to speak more slowly or clearly, and don't show your frustration.
Model Correct Speech
Speak slowly and clearly to encourage your child to do the same. Provide plenty of opportunities for your child to speak in a relaxed and calm atmosphere. At the same time, don't pressure your child to talk when she's feeling stressed or when she is having a hard time speaking.
Seek Help
If a child is school-aged and still stuttering, ask his physician if you should consult a speech therapist. Other times to seek professional help are when the child is experiencing emotional stress over his stuttering, if the stuttering gets worse, or if he is physically straining to speak.
Besides consulting with a speech expert, it's important to share your concerns with your child's teacher. She may be able to refer him for in-school speech therapy. She can also help him to express himself in the classroom, and can encourage other students to be accepting and tolerant of his speech problem.
