The Best Seven Ways To Help A Child Who Stutters

If your child stutters, you should know that there are many things that you can do so they can feel better about themselves. Keep reading to discover the top seven ways to help your stuttering child.

1. Be sure to speak in a slow relaxed manner, pausing often when you talk. When having a conversation with your child, don’t respond right away after he finishes speaking. Instead wait a few seconds before you talk. By speaking in an unhurried manner, you are modeling the right pace.

2. Show that you’re listening to whatever your child is saying, not how they are saying it. Be careful that your body language and facial expressions don’t convey a message that you’re impatient when he stutters.

Your child will surely pick up on your non verbal expressions and may feel pressured if they seem negative. So avoid glancing at your watch or tapping your fingers when he’s speaking. And maintain eye contact with him so he knows you’re paying attention.

3. Don’t interrupt the flow of what your son is trying to say by asking too many questions or making too many comments. Let him talk freely about whatever he wants to. If he is talking about what he chooses, chances are he will be more willing to talk at greater length than if he is just answering your questions. The more he is able to talk in a non pressure situation, the better.

4. Every family member, whether adult or child, is entitled to be treated with respect. One way to show that respect is to give everyone a chance to talk without fear of being cut off before they finish. If everyone who talks is constantly being interrupted or hurried, your stuttering child is getting a negative message that what they have to say is not worth hearing. You can help instill confidence with respect.

5. Show your child that you support them. If she tells you that she is being teased about her stutter, at school, arrange to meet with her teacher to discuss it. You can also suggest a few things she can do herself to deal with the situation.

6. Remember to be a listener, not a corrector. Let him speak and avoid finishing what he’s trying to say. It doesn’t help him to have you constantly correcting words he isn’t saying properly, or finishing his sentences. Let a conversation be an opportunity to take turns talking and listening.

7. Most of all, be sure you are conveying the message that your child is loved for who she is, not for how she talks. There will be times when she feels down on herself. Don’t discount these feelings but explain that everyone has trouble with something at one time or another. Use yourself as an example and relate something that was a problem for you when you were a child.

These are only a few ways that you can help your stuttering child. For more ideas , visit www.cureforstuttering.org and learn more about how to get help for a stuttering child.