My Stammering Child

Stammering, also known as stuttering, is a speech disorder characterized by interruptions in the flow of speech, such as repetitions, prolongations, or blocks.

Stammering often starts between the ages of 2 and 5, a period when children are developing their language skills.

Yes, stammering affects around 5% of children in the UK, although many outgrow it as they get older.

The exact cause of stammering is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.

While there is no 'cure' for stammering, many children can improve their fluency through speech therapy and supportive environments.

Parents can help by being patient, providing a calm speaking environment, and avoiding pressure on the child to speak perfectly.

No, correcting or interrupting a child when they stammer can increase their anxiety and make the stammering worse.

Seek professional help if the stammering lasts for more than 6 months, worsens, or if the child shows signs of frustration or avoidance.

Treatment options may include speech therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support groups.

Stammering is primarily a speech disorder and not typically indicative of deeper psychological issues, although it can cause emotional distress.

Teachers can support a child who stammers by being patient, not interrupting, and providing positive reinforcement. Avoid putting the child under pressure to speak in front of the class.

Stammering can indirectly affect a child's academic performance due to potential anxiety or reluctance to participate in speaking activities in class.

Yes, boys are about four times more likely to stammer than girls.

No, being bilingual does not cause stammering. However, managing two languages can be challenging and may sometimes exacerbate an existing stammer.

You can find support and resources from organisations such as the British Stammering Association and local speech and language therapy services.