Stuttering Basics
What is stuttering?
Stuttering is a communication disorder, characterized by interruptions in the flow of speech (stuttered moments) and negative impact on quality of life.
Stuttering can cause tension during communication, avoidance of words or situations, emotional reactions, and overall difficulty communicating.
What does stuttering look and sound like?
Stuttering can sound like repetitions of sounds, syllables, words, and phrases (re-re-re-repetition); prolongation or elongation of sounds (liiiiiiike); and blocks when no sounds come out (l----ike).
Some physical behaviors can happen during stuttering too that are typically associated with tension during stuttering or avoidance of stuttering. This can look like tension in the jaw and neck, rapid/atypical blinking, head movements, avoidance of eye contact, fist clenching, movements of arms and legs, facial grimacing, and more.
Why look into therapy?
The goal of stuttering therapy is not to eradicate the stutter. The goal of stuttering therapy is to encourage positive and efficient communication skills. There is always a chance that stuttering will continue into adult-hood and therapy can help prepare a child for that by giving them tools to succeed.
When should you seek treatment or evaluation?
Early Childhood (2-5 years old)
Many children experience a period of developmental stuttering that will naturally go away, however, if your child experiences frustration during communication or if you are concerned about their ability to communicate effectively, treatment can help. “Wait and see” is not the best practice as even a short period of treatment can improve outcomes for positive communication.
At this age, treatment focuses on education of family and child about stuttering as well as environmental modifications that can be made to improve communication. More direct therapy can work on some strategies to enhance fluency when the child desires.
School-aged Children (6-12 years old)
Between the ages of 5-7 years old, the chances of the stutter naturally recovering get lower. If your child experiences frustration, withdrawal of participation in academic or social settings.
At this age, treatment focuses on education of the family and the child, work on advocacy skills, and learning strategies to enhance fluency as needed.
Adolescents (13-18 years old)
With the life changes that happen in this age range (starting high school, job interviews, preparing for college, presentations...) it is helpful to check in and practice strategies, advanced advocacy skills, and specific situation training.
Worried about your child’s stutter? Call us (or text!) to schedule an evaluation!