Hello Moms!
I have a 5 YO daughter who has a problem with stuttering. She has been stuttering on and off since she was about 3. Over the past few months it has come back with vengence. It seems that she can't even get out a sentence without stuttering through it. I don't even think she realizes that she's doing it. I feel really bad for her, especially since she's not even aware that there is anything wrong.
I know enough that I don't correct, or hurry her, or finish her sentences for her, but I'm not sure how long I should let this go on for without intervention or therapy. I had a speech issue as a child and became very self conscience that I didn't speak properly. My husband also stuttered as a child and I understand that it is somewhat genetic, but over time he has taught himself how not to stutter. So my question is, what would you mom's who've had stuttering children recommend. I want to be as gentle and loving about this as possible so that she doesn't get a complex. She is a very smart, bright and ambitious little girl and I want her to continue on her positive track, I just feel that I can't let this go unaddressed any longer.
Thanks moms.
Well folks, I'm glad to update you all that it was just her nerves. She has stopped stuttering and I've noticed that it is only when she is really nervous about something the stuttering acts up again.
I teach 4K and I had a child at the beginning of the year who had a severe stuttering problem and now close to the end of the year his speech is much more clear. He has been in speech therapy for maybe half the year and I also think the school setting has helped him communicate better. Also, children who have stuttering issues dont stutter as much when they sing.
Hi,
My son, who is now six went through a period of time when he stuttered when he was three, The pediatrician said that children process their thoughts fast than they can pronounce their words, however, I think you have a right to be concerned since your daughter is five and with the family history. The school should have a speech specialist or if she is not enrolled or the school does not have one, I would ask her pediatrician and or pediatric speech therapist. I am sure your daughter is and will continue to
be just fine! Take care
Have your daughter evaluated by a speech pathologist. It is not unusual for a 2-3 yr old child to stutter as they develop speech but once they hit 5 yr old then it is considered a "true stutter". Along with the family history I think it is important to have her work with a professional. You are doing all of the right things in not talking for her or telling her to "slow down". You can also model slower speech when you are talking with her. Good luck!
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Definitely get her a speech evaluation. There is no downside to having her evaluated.
Our oldest (5 now) has had it on and off since he was 3 as well . It seams that every time he has a "spurt" in his language he start stuttering, then it goes away. We do not really do anything different during those times. Just be patient.
The earlier the intervention, the better the result. :)
The Stuttering Foundation is a great source for help with stuttering. They have referrals to speech therapists who specialize in treating stuttering. The web site (www.stutteringhelp.org) is full of professional information.
I would have her evaluated and tread by a speech therapists ASAP. Why wait?
