Does my child have a stutter?

It is normal for all people to experience disfluencies in their talking. It is when these disfluencies become frequent and impact an individual’s ability to communicate clearly on a daily basis, that concerns may arise that they are experiencing stuttering. 

What is stuttering: Stuttering is a speech disorder which impacts the flow and smoothness of speech. Stuttering behaviours are divided into three main categories:

1.       Repetitions: repetitions of sounds (e.g. bbb-ball), repetitions of syllables (e.g. break-break-breakfast) or repetitions of words (e.g. but but but I want to….).
2.       Blocks: when you cannot get your words out (e.g. sn……ake)
3.       Prolongations: when the beginnings of words are elongated (e.g. sssssssssssstop)
4.       Other behaviours may include facial grimaces, eye blinking, tics, frowns and filler words (e.g. like, um) etc.

Some facts about stuttering:

•       Researchers have not yet pinpointed the cause of stuttering.
•       People do not stutter because they are anxious or nervous, however anxiety can make stuttering worse.
•       Typically, stuttering emerges during the preschool years between 2-5 years of age. It can come on suddenly (e.g. overnight) or gradually.
•       11.2% of children develop stuttering by the age of 4.
•       Some children recover naturally from stuttering. Between 2-3 there is a higher chance at 4 years there is a small possibility of natural recovery however after 5 years of age natural recovery is not possible. It cannot be predicted which children will recover naturally. be
•       Children have the best chance of clinical success during the preschool years. 

If you have concerns that your child may be stuttering, it is recommended they receive an assessment by a Speech Pathologist. From there, we will advise you on the best course of action.