Does My Child Have Childhood Onset Fluency Disorder?

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?

While it is unlikely that your child has childhood onset fluency disorder, also called stuttering, he or she may be displaying a few signs related to it. Childhood onset fluency disorder is characterized by problems with normal fluency and flow of speech. Children know what they want to say, but have a hard time saying it. Stuttering is usual among young children as a normal part of learning how to speak. Their language abilities may not be developed enough to keep up with what they want to say. Most kids outgrow this problem, however, sometimes it’s a condition that persists into adulthood. This can impact normal functioning and self-esteem.

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying some signs related to childhood onset fluency disorder (stuttering). It may be useful to visit your child’s doctor to talk about his or her symptoms. It’s normal for children between 2 and 5 years old to stutter: it’s part of learning to speak and it gets better on its own. However, when stuttering persists, it may require treatment to improve speech fluency. If not treated, your child may avoid speaking or 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.