STUTTERING & PRONUNCIATION DIFFICULTIES

STUTTERING THERAPY

WHAT IS STUTTERING?

Stuttering is a type of speech disorder that affects more than 70 million people around the globe. Stuttering affects males more than it affects females. It’s interesting to note that 5 -10% of children will stutter at some point in their childhood, but most children will outgrow stuttering within a few months. But if stuttering in kids continues and is affecting your child’s life, make an appointment to visit one of our professional therapists and get stuttering treatment for children. 

HOW WOULD YOU IDENTIFY STUTTERING?

If your child repeats certain syllables, words, or phrases, they must be monitored thoroughly. Stuttering disrupts the flow of speech. It seems to appear as early as 18-24 months of age in children. However, most children stop stuttering by the age of 5 without the need for therapy or treatment.

It’s important to seek help from experts because it not only affects the way your child communicates but also their emotional health. Some kids are teased for stuttering, and this can cause depression and low self-esteem. So, you must reach us to get professional stuttering therapy.

What causes stuttering in kids & adults?

Doctors and scientists are not 100% sure what causes stuttering. Most can agree that it happens when the brain’s messages don’t interact in the right way with body parts and muscles that affect speech. Stuttering might also be genetic. Studies have shown that children who stutter usually have a close family member with the same problem. Family stress and pressure at school or from parents can worsen existing stuttering. It is thus advised to meet an expert for stuttering treatment.

When should you seek help?

It’s important to seek help if stuttering in children continues for longer than 6 months; or if your child is older than 5 and still struggles with stuttering. It’s important to let your speech therapist know if you notice any of the following symptoms-

  • Has speech that sounds strained
  • Your child changes words to prevent stuttering
  • Repeats words and phrases often
  • Has body or facial movements along with the stuttering
  • Facial tension
  • Vocal tension; either your child’s voice goes very high or low

As a parent, there are also things that you can do to help your child. Remember, your child could be feeling embarrassed or frustrated. Never get angry at your child for stuttering. Try not to put added pressure on your child when it comes to speaking. Speaking should be fun; if you are always correcting their pronunciation in a stern way, they could become afraid to say what they want to. It is also a good idea to use family mealtimes to chat. Switch the TV off, and talk to one another. This will encourage your child to speak without distraction. 

Here are some other things that you can do as a parent to help your child:

  • Speak slowly and clearly to your child
  • Don’t tell them to think before they speak
  • Don’t interrupt your child or tell them to start over again
  • Don’t criticize your child
How can a therapist help?

A speech therapist offers stuttering treatment for children to help them speak fluently as well as boost their confidence. It is done using proven and practical techniques.

Stuttering in adults is also very common and if you are an adult and have been dealing with daily life challenges of stuttering, then you should look into Stuttering Therapy for Adults with us.

Seek help today

We at Winnipeg Speech Therapy Clinic would love to help your child. We know that stuttering can be stressful for children as well as for parents. The good news is that professional help is available.