Did you know that it is normal for preschoolers to go through a period of dysfluency (pausing between words or repeating sounds). In fact, about 25% of children between the ages of
18 months and 5 years will experience some symptoms of dysfluency. As children develop their language skills they may
undergo a normal period of time where they have difficulty translating their thoughts into words.
What can we do as parents to help children who are going through this normal period of developmental dysfluency? Don't
tease your child, don't force them to stop stuttering, don't correct them and don't finish their sentences. Be patient, allow them
time to complete their thought, slow down your own speech, reduce the number of questions you ask, and give them your
undivided attention (give them nonverbal cues you are listening
such as eye contact).
If the stuttering lasts for more than 6 months or continues to occur after 4 or 5 years of age, consult your pediatrician or request a speech evaluation.
For more information on dysfluency and what you can do to help your child ing www.stutteringhelp.org.
18 months and 5 years will experience some symptoms of dysfluency. As children develop their language skills they may
undergo a normal period of time where they have difficulty translating their thoughts into words.
What can we do as parents to help children who are going through this normal period of developmental dysfluency? Don't
tease your child, don't force them to stop stuttering, don't correct them and don't finish their sentences. Be patient, allow them
time to complete their thought, slow down your own speech, reduce the number of questions you ask, and give them your
undivided attention (give them nonverbal cues you are listening
such as eye contact).
If the stuttering lasts for more than 6 months or continues to occur after 4 or 5 years of age, consult your pediatrician or request a speech evaluation.
For more information on dysfluency and what you can do to help your child ing www.stutteringhelp.org.
RSS Feed
