Stuttering or stammering is a speech disorder where an individual experiences repetitions, prolongations or blocks while speaking.
Children don’t stammer as soon as they begin talking. Its onset occurs around two to six years of age.
While the exact cause of stuttering is not known, hereditary factors are suspected to exert an influence.
Stammering can hurt a child’s self-esteem, causing them to avoid social situations. They may also speak at a slow pace or avoid words that induce stammering.
Speech therapy is an effective treatment approach that involves methods like slowing the speech rate, lengthening the first syllable of words and breathing techniques.
Parents shouldn’t attach shame or stigma to their child’s stuttering. They should talk to the child at a slower pace and give them space and time to complete the sentences without interfering.