Does anyone have a child that stutters?

Question

My son is 3 yrs old and he has talked for about 2 yrs. He started very early and with 2 other siblings he learned to talk very well. I am not sure why but within the last 2 - 3 wks he started to stutter. I was wondering if anyone knew if the stutter was perminant or if it was something that he was going through. I have noticed that it was getting worse with time. Is a stutter something that you are born with or is it something that you can get with age. It doesnt really matter to me, but i have noticed that it bothers him and sometimes he gets very mad that he can not say what he wants to.

Answer 1

Read what is on the Stuttering Foundation's web site at www.stutteringhelp.org. They have a chart that helps you decide if it a phase the child is going through or if he should be referred to a specialist in stuttering. The web site also has a list of things you can do at home to help as well as referrals to specialists all over the world. Libraries have books and videos donated by the Foundation so check to see if your library has them.

Answer 2

My son started stuttering around age 3 also. Kids become especially verbal around that age, and it's just hard for them to get it all out! If your son started talking early, he probably has a larger vocabulary than most 3 year olds, which has added to the problem. Just be very patient with him, and remind him to slow down when he's talking, but not so much that he becomes more aware of the problem, which will make it worse. My son outgrew his stuttering in a few years, and is now a smooth-talking 20 year old! On the other hand, my friend's son never outgrew his, but because his parents have been so encouraging, he is a fine, outgoing young man who is not afraid to stand up in front of a crowd (like at church) and speak, stutter and all. Most kids outgrow it, and your son probably will too, but either way, just love and accept him.

Answer 3

It seems likely to me that your son has begun to face something that is very difficult for him. What in his life is making him feel anxious?

I say this because my little boy began stuttering badly when he was 2 years old. He had a really tough time making himself understood.

And then, one night, I remembered my nursing class on child development. Remembered that one cause of stuttering coming on so quickly was anxiety. And at that point, I was pushing the boy to potty train. So, I told my husband that I was going to stop making the potty training such a big deal.

From that point on, if the boy told me, and made it to the potty in time, he got praise from Mommy. If he did not, he got his pants changed while Mommy cheerfully chattered on about things that did not relate to potty training. No cross words, no frowns.

Within a week, the stuttering stopped, entirely. Within 2 weeks, he began being 95% successful on telling me when he needed to go to the potty.

Answer 4

sometimes kids stutter because they are thinking faster than then can speak. My daughter started at 3 and it is getting better. You just need to remind him to slow down and think first. It's difficult but it can be achieved. If you feel that this isnt; working then I would take him to a doctor that could give you a more in depth look at why he might be doing it.

Answer 5

Mine stuttered till he was 4. They told me not to pay any attention and not to worry till he is in kindergarten. Make sure no one else says anything to make him feel self conscious. They have so much to say and I wonder sometimes if their brain can not catch up to their mouths @ that age. LOLGood luck.

Answer 6

Try encouraging him to slow down and think about what he is trying to say. I work in a day care and work with 3 year olds. I have several that do this. I believe that sometimes they get excited when they want to tell you something and don't stop to think out what they are trying to say. Just be patient with him and encourage him. If he doesn't stop after awhile I would consult with his pediatritian to get an expert opinion. I believe he will grow out of it. Good luck.