Over the years I have seen hundreds of children and adults who stutter…I can honestly say ages 8 to 14 are the most challenging. It is the ages when no one wants to be different. Whether they stutter, have ADHD, aren’t happy how they look or whatever the majority do not want to sound different. Even if it means changing severe stuttering to less stuttering it is often resisted. Why? It is the fear of being found out even if others know. Do not despair. Let me tell you some key ways to help your children that I have found useful:
First everyone responds well to praise. Praise the message. I like how you are telling me that. I see you are really trying.
Do not talk about stuttering in front of them unless they want to. Why? because even though you are their parents they might still be embarrassed.
If they are in speech therapy practice 2 to 3 times a week. It will take time to see progress.
Understand it is hard to change how one speaks.
Let them finish their sentence and do not interrupt.
Praise again. They will use strategies more if you praise their efforts.
For more information please contact Lori@allislandspeech.com