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Stammering Myth 4: You Should Ignore a Child's Stammer
Understanding Stammering
Stammering, also known as stuttering, is a speech disorder commonly affecting both children and adults. It is characterised by disruptions in the normal flow of speech, such as repetitions of sounds, syllables, or words, prolongations of sounds, and involuntary pauses. In the United Kingdom, around 8% of children will experience stammering at some point. Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for their development and well-being.The Myth: Ignoring a Child's Stammer
A commonly held belief is that you should ignore a child's stammer, assuming it will naturally resolve itself over time. However, this myth can be detrimental. Ignoring a stammer may inadvertently convey to the child that their speech difficulties are not important or that they should be ashamed of their stammer. This can negatively impact their self-esteem and communication skills, making the situation worse.The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing and reducing stammering. Speech and language therapists in the UK recommend acknowledging the child's communication efforts positively. By showing patience and support, parents and caregivers can create a safe environment for the child, encouraging them to express themselves without fear or frustration.Practical Support for Children Who Stammer
Several strategies can help a child who stammers: - **Listen attentively**: Give them time to talk without interrupting or finishing their sentences. - **Maintain eye contact**: Show them that you are interested in what they have to say, not how they say it. - **Encourage talking**: Engage in conversations that are relaxed and fun. - **Model slow speech**: Speak slowly and clearly yourself, which can help the child feel less rushed and more relaxed.Seeking Professional Help
If you are concerned about your child's stammer, seek advice from a speech and language therapist. The NHS provides access to such specialists who can offer tailored strategies and support for your child. The British Stammering Association (now called Stamma) is also an excellent resource for information and guidance.Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that you should ignore a child's stammer?
No, ignoring a child’s stammer is not recommended. Acknowledging the stammer in a supportive way can help the child feel more comfortable and less anxious about speaking.
Why shouldn't I ignore a child's stammer?
Ignoring a child’s stammer can make the child feel more anxious and frustrated, potentially worsening the stammer. It's important to support the child and help them develop confidence in their speech.
What is the best way to respond when a child stammers?
The best way to respond is to listen patiently, maintain eye contact, and give the child time to finish speaking. Avoid finishing sentences for them or rushing them.
Will paying attention to a child's stammer make it worse?
No, paying attention in a supportive and understanding manner can actually be beneficial. It shows the child that you're interested in what they are saying, not just how they are saying it.
How can I support a child who stammers?
You can support a child who stammers by showing patience, responding calmly, not interrupting, and offering positive encouragement. Creating a relaxed speaking environment can also help.
Should I talk about the stammer with the child?
Yes, it can be helpful to talk about the stammer if done in a supportive, non-judgmental way. It lets the child know that it’s okay to have a stammer and that you’re there to support them.
Can a stammer be outgrown without intervention?
Some children may outgrow their stammer as they develop, but others may need support from speech and language therapists. Early intervention can be beneficial.
Is stammering caused by nervousness or anxiety?
While nervousness and anxiety can exacerbate stammering, they are not the root cause. Stammering is often due to a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Are there specific strategies to help reduce stammering?
Yes, speech and language therapists can provide specific techniques and strategies tailored to the individual child to help manage stammering.
How common is stammering in children?
Stammering affects about 5% of children at some point, most commonly between the ages of 2 and 5 as they develop speech and language skills.
Is stammering a sign of a more serious problem?
Not necessarily. Stammering is primarily a speech disorder and not typically linked to other serious health issues. However, it’s always good to consult a professional for an accurate assessment.
Will a child’s stammer improve with time?
Some children may see improvements in their stammer over time, especially with support from family, teachers, and speech and language therapists.
Does a stammer indicate low intelligence?
No, stammering is not related to intelligence. Many highly intelligent and successful individuals stammer.
Should I correct a child when they stammer?
It's not helpful to correct a child’s speech as it can increase anxiety and make the stammer worse. Instead, focus on what they are saying and offer encouragement.
Can speech and language therapy help a child who stammers?
Yes, speech and language therapy can be very effective in helping children who stammer. Therapists can provide strategies to manage stammering and build communication confidence.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Giving Voice - Stammer and Fluency Problems
- NHS - Stammering Provides comprehensive information on stammering including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options available on the NHS.
- The British Stammering Association (BSA) - Stamma A UK-based charity offering resources, support, and advice for people who stammer. Includes tips, personal stories, and details about therapy options.
- Action for Stammering Children Charity focused on supporting children and young people who stammer, and their families. Provides therapy, resources, and community support.
- Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists - Stammering Professional body for speech and language therapists in the UK offering information on therapy services, professional support, and resources about stammering.
Useful links from: Why do some children stammer?
- NHS - Stammering in children This NHS page provides an overview of stammering (or stuttering) in children, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
- NHS - Overview of Stammering General information from the NHS on stammering, including causes, risk factors, and when to seek medical advice.
- Action for Stammering Children Action for Stammering Children is a UK charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who stammer. The website offers resources and information for families and professionals.
- British Stammering Association (STAMMA) - For Parents STAMMA, the British Stammering Association, provides support and resources for parents of children who stammer, including advice on how to help your child and where to find additional support.
Useful links from: Stammering: How to Help
- NHS - Stammering Provides comprehensive information on stammering, including symptoms, causes, treatments, and advice on how to seek help.
- British Stammering Association (Stamma) Offers a wealth of resources for people who stammer, including support services, information on stammering, and advice for parents and teachers.
- Action for Stammering Children Focuses on providing support and therapeutic services specifically for children and young people who stammer, and their families.
- The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adults who stammer, offering both individual and group therapy options.
Useful links from: I don’t need to be fixed – what I wish the world understood about stammering
- NHS - Stammering Provides an overview of stammering, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options as recommended by the NHS.
- Action for Stammering Children A UK charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who stammer, offering resources, guidance, and access to specialist services.
- British Stammering Association The British Stammering Association, also known as STAMMA, offers support, information, and resources for people who stammer and raises awareness about stammering.
- The McGuire Programme An international programme with a strong UK presence, offering courses and coaching aimed at helping individuals overcome stammering through physical and psychological techniques.
Useful links from: My Stammering Child
- NHS - Stammering in Children Information from the NHS on stammering in children, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- The British Stammering Association (BSA) - Stamma UK charity offering support and resources for people who stammer, including children. Provides information on therapy, helplines, and peer support.
- Action for Stammering Children UK charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who stammer. Offers resources for parents, information on speech therapy, and details on support services.
- Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Specialist centre in London providing assessment and therapy for children who stammer. Offers a range of resources and support for parents and professionals.
Useful links from: Stammering: myths about the cause of stammering
- NHS - Stammering The NHS page provides comprehensive information about stammering, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Action for Stammering Children Action for Stammering Children is a UK charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who stammer. Their site includes resources and information to help understand stammering.
- The British Stammering Association (BSA) - Myths About Stammering The BSA (Stamma) dispels common myths about stammering and provides factual information to help educate and support those affected.
- Michael Palin Centre for Stammering The Michael Palin Centre provides therapy services and resources for people who stammer, including information about the causes and myths surrounding stammering.
Useful links from: Will's story on having therapy - Stammering
- NHS - Stammering NHS page providing an overview of stammering, including causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
- Stamma (British Stammering Association) Resource by the British Stammering Association offering support, information, and advice for individuals who stammer and their families.
- Action for Stammering Children UK charity dedicated to supporting and improving the lives of children and young people who stammer.
- NHS - Get Help with Speech and Language Therapy NHS resource outlining how to access speech and language therapy services, which can be helpful for individuals who stammer.
Useful links from: Adam's story on stammering - Therapy
- NHS - Stammering (Stuttering) Official NHS page providing information on stammering, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments available through the National Health Service.
- Stamma (British Stammering Association) UK-based charity offering resources, support, and advice for people who stammer. They provide information on therapy, support groups, and other ways to manage stammering.
- Action for Stammering Children Charity dedicated to helping children and young people who stammer. They support therapy programs, provide resources for parents, and fund research into stammering.
- Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Specialist centre in the UK that offers assessment and therapy for children and adults who stammer. They also provide training for therapists and carry out research into stammering.
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