Stuttering is a form of a speech disorder that is characterized by the abnormal flow of speech. It is very common in children where speech is broken by the inability to vocalize the beginning of words, frequent repetitions or by dragging out speech sounds. This condition can be provoking to children by blocking their communication when they want to express everything they think and see. But with patience and understanding by parents and teachers, stuttering can be of less of a frustration to children. Here are tips and advice on child stutter, which is very useful for you and your children.
Provide a supportive environment for the child, and this can only be achieved by being patient with them and giving them the appropriate time to speak their minds even if they don’t say the words correctly. You can also try to use vocabulary and short sentences that are suitable for their age. If you have questions, let them finish answering one before asking another. This will help in eliminating any frustration when trying to imitate complex words, sentences or phrases.
Tell your child to relax as this will make him feel that he doesn’t have to rush through his words. You must make sure your child understands that you are not angry with him, but you want to understand what he is saying to you clearly. Talk to them in a slow, clear and concise way, and as a parent, you should be an observer of your child. When speaking to them, avoid rushing your words as it can make him believe it is alright to speed talk.
Get down to their level, children respond to grown-ups who are are the same level as them, as it gives them a feeling of having full attention. Children will too look to talk to you and even repeat themselves. So, be patient and use your body language effectively to show you are engaging in their conversation.
Flashcards Can Help With Stuttering
Design flashcards of difficult words and sounds. Practice words and sounds that your child stammers over when trying to say them. Take turns saying them, for instance, say the words or the sounds first and then say them with your child together until they try to say them in his own way. Therapists and teachers use this rule as a way to correct pronunciation.
Please encourage your child to finish their thoughts and sentences on their own. Do not let other people finish thoughts for him and if they are stuttering on a phrase, encourage them to stop what they are saying and take a short break. Then give them a chance to finish their thoughts and sentences.
Love your child the way he/she is, and it is no one’s fault that the child is stuttering. This will give both of you peace of mind and stimulate you to help him/her without giving up. You will also understand that overcoming stuttering can’t be accomplished overnight and encourage your child accordingly.
Please encourage them to read aloud and breathe correctly as this helps your child to not think about what he/she is trying to say and struggle to say it. Breathing correctly and excluding the need to think about the words he is trying to say will reduce anxiety and nervousness.
If you are still worried about your child’s stuttering, then speak your child’s doctor or health visitors who can arrange a visit from your local Speech therapists. Speech therapists are professionals who have worked with many families with children who have speech and language difficulties. They will offer help and advice and provide you with the proper support you and your child needs.
