You see the frustration on your child’s face as they try to get a word or idea out, but stuttering is getting in the way. And you certainly want to do everything in your power not to add to their frustration.
It might surprise you to learn that you’re in very good company — up to 10% of kids stutter at some point. And all of these kids come with concerned parents or caregivers who are trying to do the best they can to navigate this early communication challenge.
Well, the team here at Celebrations Speech Group wants to help, so we’ve pulled together six great ways that you can support your child through stuttering challenges.
The most important way to support your child is to practice extreme patience. If your child gets stuck on a word or a phrase, give them all the time they need to work their way through to the end. This means not jumping in with the correct word or finishing their sentences for them.
As well, we also recommend that you don’t ask your child to pause or start over — just let their words come out however they come out.
A great way to encourage a child who stutters is to provide a great example of speaking slowly and clearly. So, make an effort to slow your speech down when you’re talking to them so that they see that they don’t have to rush through speaking and expressing themselves.
It’s important not to push your child to speak in front of others or to read aloud if they don’t feel comfortable doing so. As you might have already discovered, stress can really exacerbate stuttering, so you want to keep that to a minimum.
You may be saying all the right things verbally, but make sure your expressions are in line. If every time your child stutters, they see concern or frustration on your face, they will register and absorb that.
Kids who stutter often avoid talking because it’s stressful and frustrating. So, finding ways to make communication more fun and relaxed is a great idea. For example, don’t put them on the spot at the dinner table by asking them a pointed question. Instead, talk among yourselves, slowly and clearly, and pick topics that engage your child so they might decide to join in.
You might also try playing games, such as 20 Questions, in which communication is just part of something bigger and more fun.
While 70% of kids grow out of stuttering, there’s no way to tell whether your child will be one. So, we strongly recommend that you come to see our experienced and compassionate speech therapists, who can help guide your child toward more fluid speech. This is especially true if your child’s stutter is moderate to severe and shows no signs of improving after 6-12 months.
If you have more questions about how to help your child navigate stuttering, please don't hesitate to contact one of our offices in Brentwood, Stockton, or Elk Grove, California, to schedule a consultation.
