When parents first notice their child struggling to speak or repeating sounds, it can be a worrisome experience. It's natural to feel a mix of concern and uncertainty, wondering if this is a passing phase or something more serious. Stuttering in children is actually quite common, often emerging between the ages of 2 and 6 as they rapidly develop language skills. The causes can vary—from genetic and developmental factors to environmental influences such as stress or changes at home.

 

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When to Get Help

If your child is still stuttering at age 5, it's a good idea to consult with a doctor or a speech-language therapist. Early intervention can make a big difference, so keep an eye out for the following signs that it’s time to seek professional guidance:

• It can be concerning when your child avoids situations where they have to talk, changes words out of fear of stuttering, or exhibits facial or body movements while speaking. 
• If you notice that they often and consistently repeat whole words and phrases, or repeat sounds and syllables more frequently, it's important to address these concerns. 
• Additionally, if you observe that their speech sounds strained or forced, or notice increased facial tension or tightness when they speak, it might be a good idea to reach out to a therapist. 
• Also, if there’s vocal tension that causes a rise in pitch or loudness, or if you have any other concerns about their speech development, don't hesitate to seek professional guidance.

 

Related story: Stuttering in Children: Parent's Guide

 

How Can You Support As A Parent

Understanding the nature of stuttering and knowing how to respond can have a significant impact. It's important to recognise that there are effective strategies for supporting your child. Creating a relaxed speaking environment, refraining from pressuring them to "speak perfectly," and seeking guidance from a speech therapist can significantly improve communication and reduce your child’s stress related to speaking.

1. Speak slowly and pause often: Talk to your child in a calm, unhurried manner, allowing pauses in the conversation. After your child finishes speaking, wait a few seconds before you respond. Your own relaxed speech style will be much more effective than telling them to "slow down" or "try again slowly."

2. Limit questions: Reduce the number of questions you ask. Kids are more likely to speak freely when sharing their own thoughts, rather than responding to an adult’s questions. Instead of asking, try commenting on what your child has said to show you're listening.

3. Focus on the message, not the stutter: Use facial expressions and body language to show that you're paying attention to what your child is saying, not how they’re saying it. This helps shift the focus from the stuttering to the content of their message.

4. Create special one-on-one time: Set aside a few minutes each day for undivided attention with your child. Let them choose the activity and decide whether to speak or stay quiet. Use this time to talk slowly and calmly, allowing for pauses. It’s a confidence booster for younger children and, as they get older, a time when they can share their thoughts and feelings in a relaxed environment.

5. Encourage turn-taking in conversations: Help your family learn to take turns speaking and listening. Kids, especially those who stutter, feel more comfortable talking when there are fewer interruptions and they have everyone's full attention.

6. Observe your interactions: Try to increase moments that show your child you're listening and they have plenty of time to express themselves. Reduce criticisms, rapid speech, interruptions, and questions.

7. Show unconditional acceptance: Above all, let your child know you accept them just as they are. Your slower, more relaxed speech, along with efforts to build their confidence, can help reduce stuttering. However, the most important thing is your support, regardless of whether they stutter or not.

 

Related story: How to Talk so Kids Will Listen

Some Things to Watch For

It can be tricky to tell normal disfluencies apart from stuttering, especially since stuttering severity can change over time—even with therapy. Watch out for these signs that might indicate your child's stuttering is getting more pronounced:

• More repetitions: The number of repetitions increases (e.g., saying “I” five times in “I-I-I-I-I want that”).
• More prolongations: There's a shift from repetitions to prolonged sounds (e.g., “IIIIIIIII want that”).
• Speech blockages: Your child may open their mouth to speak, but no sound comes out.
• Physical strain: There’s noticeable tension or struggle when trying to get words out.
• Pitch changes: You hear changes in pitch during stretched-out sounds, or the rhythm of repetitions becomes uneven.
• Emotional reactions: Your child shows signs of fear or frustration right before or after a disfluency.

 

Supporting a child who stutters involves more than just working on their speech; it’s about fostering an environment where they feel heard, valued, and accepted. While speech techniques can help improve fluency, the most impactful change comes from the reassurance you provide through your actions and words. By creating calm moments, listening attentively, and showing unconditional support, you can help your child build confidence and reduce the stress associated with speaking. 

 

Related story: Talk Therapy VS Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

 

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