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Dealing
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Stuttering
Causes - Dealing with speech problems
There
are certain speech problems in your child that you may be
able to deal with it yourself. Others may require professional
help.
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Two common speech problems
are described here: speech delay and stuttering.
What
is speech delay?
Speech
delay is the delay in the development or use of the
mechanisms that produce speech (making intelligible
sounds). It is closely related to but is different
from language
development, which is the development or a
usage of a language.
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There are numerous
factors which can influence the age that your child will
start to speak. One of them could be related to a poor hearing
problem. Most babies should have undergone hearing test
in the first year. But if your child is still not saying
anything at all by the time he/she is 14 months old, it
is suggested to have a re-test. If a child has dyslexia,
he/she may have difficulities making sounds which makes
up a word.
What is Stuttering?
Stuttering is
also known as stammering. When a child's timing mechanism
with their speech are not yet fully matured, it may cause
a disruption in the way sound is being produced. When this
occurs, a child may stutters. Involuntary sound repetition
which includes abnormal hesitation or pausing before speech,
and the prolongation of certain sounds are common manifestations
of stutterings.
Stuttering does
not mean that your child is any less intelligent. Apart
from their speech impediment, people who stutter may be
normal in most cases.
Relating to
a child who stutters.
A child who stutters
may be made fun of by their peers. This could lead to a
loss of self esteem and confidence. It is important to relate
well and encourage a child who stutters.
- Be patient.
Do not rush or interupt a child to finish a sentence for
him/her. Let the child finish the sentence by him/herself.
- Try to reduce
stressful situations which may makes it more difficult for
the child to speak.
- Give your child
full attention and look at him/her in the eye when listening
to the child. Do not make it more difficult by being distracted.
- Most people
who stutter do not have this problem when they are singing.
Encourage your child to sing to build up confidence and
self image.
How to help
your stuttering child.
There are a few
suggested methods you can try at home to help your stuttering
child. But it is by no means a replacement for seeking professional
help when necessary.
- Lit a candle
and let your child whisper into the flame without blowing
the flame out. Stuttering is often lessen when a child speak
softly.
- Encourage your
child to take a deep breath before he/she starts to speak.
Continue in between sentences.
- Try singing
with your child and have fun. This helps the child to build
confidence.
- Seek professional
help if needed. Speech therapy may help increase fluency
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Visitors
who read this article also read these:
-
Speech
& Language Development
-
Dealing
with speech problems
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