Stuttering is characterized by part-word repetitions (I s-s-s-see it.), one-syllable word repetitions (He-he-he is nice.), prolonged sounds (That’s mmmmmmine.), and blocks or stops (The dog [pause] is cute). Secondary behaviors like eye blinking or squeezing and body movements like head shaking, facial grimacing, and throat clearing may also be present. These behaviors are involuntary or are used by the speaker to prevent stuttering. Quality of life is often impacted by negative feelings about stuttering.
It’s recommended to seek the help of an SLP as early as possible if you think your child stutters. Contact a SLP if:
Your child is beginning to stutter or stutter more often (stuttering usually starts between 2 and 6 years old)
Your child's stuttering has lasted more than 6 months
Your child struggles to talk, avoids talking, or says it’s difficult
You have any of the following risk factors for stuttering:
A family history of stuttering
Gender-boys are more likely to continue stuttering
Age-if stuttering began after 3.5 years old or later
Evaluation: A SLP will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and recommend therapy depending on age, the severity and frequency of the stuttering, how it impacts your child’s life, how they react to their stuttering, their feelings about their stuttering, and other factors.
Therapy: Treatment can include direct strategies that change how a child speaks and/or indirect strategies that help make speaking easier. A SLP should work with you and your child to determine goals and a treatment approach that align with your criteria for success.
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