During the Early Years language is developing very rapidly, and children will often hesitate; repeat sounds and words; or maybe stop and start a whole sentence over again two or three times.
5% of children will do this more frequently, and while most grow out of it, 1 in 5 of these children may continue to stammer.
Stammering and stuttering are words that mean a child has difficulty getting out the words they want to say. You may hear breaks in speech or they may appear to struggle; and this can:
- last for weeks or months
- happen only very occasionally
- come and go
How you can help
- Be interested in what the child is telling you, not in how it’s being said.
- Be patient and encouraging, and maintain eye contact. Show that you are listening.
- Give the child plenty of time to talk.
- During a conversation, ensure that each child gets his/her turn.
- Don’t tell the child to slow down, or take a deep breath and start again. It does not help.
- Instead, speak more slowly yourself.
- Try not to finish off his/her sentences.
- Make the most of opportunities to build the child’s confidence, and give lots of praise.
- Avoid asking too many questions, as you may unwittingly be creating pressure.
- Set aside a few minutes regular time each day when you can give your undivided attention to your child. This quiet, calm time can be a confidence builder for young children.
- If you are concerned, contact your local Speech and Language Therapy Department here after watching…
7 tips for Talking with a Child Who Stutters and Tips for Talking Fluently
My Child Has a Stammer WEBINAR
Please see the dates and joining links of upcoming webinars HERE