Learning that your child has a stutter can be very scary, but it is also very common. There may be some things you are worried about, but let us clear up those myths for you:
My Child’s Stutter is a Problem
Stuttering is a normal phase that many children go through when they are learning to speak. Preschoolers may have a phase of stuttering when they are having a surge in their language skills. It may seem that they have so much to say that their mouth just can’t keep up. This type of stuttering will likely fade over time. However, look out for signs that your child’s stuttering is serious, such as if they are still stuttering past the age of 4-5 years or consistently for more than 6 months. Another sign is if your child is stuttering single sounds or gets stuck trying to say sounds or words with no sound coming out.
I Should Finish My Child’s Sentences
It can be very hard not to finish your child’s sentence, especially when you are sure you know exactly what they are trying to say. However, it is important to let them finish on their own. Finish your child’s sentence may make them feel as if you don’t have enough time to listen. This will cause them to feel pressured each time they speak to you and therefore making the stuttering worse. Try to get down at eye level with your child when they are speaking with you. This will let them know that they have your undivided attention and you are truly listening.
Our Lifestyle Doesn’t Affect My Child’s Stuttering
The speed of your lifestyle can actually have an effect on their stuttering. If you live a very busy lifestyle, the time constraints and pressures can make them feel stressed, and children who stutter can be sensitive to this. Slow down your lifestyle to see if it helps.
I Should Not Stutter in Front of My Child
It can actually be very helpful to hear a familiar adult stutter as well. Children may feel as if they are alone in their stuttering, so hearing someone older stutter without getting upset normalizes it a bit more for them. If they are not yet aware of their own stuttering, you can help raise their awareness by demonstrating it in your own speech and reacting calmly.
I Caused My Child’s Stuttering
A parent can not cause their child to stutter. Genetics and brain function can cause children to be more likely to stutter. External factors like busy lifestyles, etc. can affect a stutter if the child already has one, but it can not cause it.
SpeechEasy
Your child is not alone in their stuttering. SpeechEasy is a combination of proven technology and techniques which can be used to reduce stuttering. Worn in one ear and similar in appearance to a hearing aid, SpeechEasy has helped thousands increase their ability to communicate effectively and confidently. The program that comes with every SpeechEasy is supported by a team of fluency professionals who truly care about your success. Contact us!
