Why Does My Child Have Problems With Fluency Of Speech?

Does your child have difficulty starting a sentence, phrase or word?

Does your child use a short silence for certain syllables or words, or pauses within a word?

Does he or she prolong a word or sounds within a word?

Does your child often add extra words such as "um" if he has difficulty moving to the next word?

Does your child often repeat a sound, syllable or word?

Does your child show excess tension, tightness, or movement of the face or upper body to produce a word?

Does your child have a limited ability to effectively communicate?

Is your child anxious about talking?

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying some signs related to stuttering, also called childhood onset fluency disorder. Stuttering is very common among young kids as a normal part of learning to speak. Childhood onset fluency disorder causes problems with normal fluency and flow of speech. In such cases, children know what they are about to say, but have difficulties saying it. Most children outgrow stuttering, but for some kids the condition becomes chronic. Therefore, it’s important to detect early signs and if necessary treat the condition as soon as possible.

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying some issues with fluency of speech. It may be useful to visit your child’s doctor. It’s common for children between the ages of 2 and 5 to stutter: it’s part of learning to speak and in most cases it gets better on its own. However, when stuttering persists, it may require treatment. If left untreated, your child may avoid speaking or even refuse to go to school. He may also be bullied and develop low self-esteem. Make sure to ask for help as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening.

Unfortunately, your child may be displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have childhood onset fluency disorder. Talking to your child’s doctor is essential. There are various approaches available to treat children (and adults) who stutter. Treatment may not eliminate all stuttering, but it can help to improve speech fluency, to communicate effectively and to participate normally in school and social activities. Treatment options include speech therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and electronic devices. As a parent you should try to listen attentively to your child, don’t jump in to complete sentences, and speak slowly. Offer praise and accept your child as he or she is.