Language is an ability that is in full development among children from 2 to 5 years old. Therefore, problems related to speech fluency are quite common at these ages. During this stage, children are expanding their vocabulary and incorporating complex language rules that require greater coordination when speaking, so it is normal for errors to occur. Broken speech or repetition of phrases can even occur intermittently, depending on the child's mood or the social pressure he or she receives.
Most fluency problems among toddlers and preschoolers are episodic and disappear after a short time. However, this is also a key period to detect and treat the signs of stuttering. So what are the differences between typical speech fluency problems and those that should concern parents? Below, we explain the main signs, risk factors and treatments for stuttering in children.
According to an article published in the pediatrics blog Healthy Children, there are several aspects that we can look at when differentiating between typical and atypical speech difficulties. It is common for children during these learning periods to repeat phrases or entire words or use fillers when speaking. However, there are some signs that can warn us of early stuttering:
On the other hand, there are other risk factors that can help parents predict stuttering in children. The most notable is the existence of a family history, which, together with other coexisting speech or language disorders, increases the chances of a child stuttering. By gender, boys are twice as likely to stutter as girls. Finally, children who begin to have difficulty speaking at age 4 are more prone to persistent stuttering than those who begin stuttering when they are younger.
If the above signs match those of your child, you should go to the pediatrician's office for a speech and language evaluation. He or she may refer you to a specialized pathologist who will help the parent determine the likelihood that stuttering persists and offer the best plan of action. Fundamentally, there are two approaches to treating stuttering:
Indirect treatment is carried out by professionals specialized in speech and language disorders. They consist of helping parents modify their own communication styles and are effective in reducing stuttering in younger children. Good speech habits, positive and relaxed communication and, above all, patience, are essential when dealing with stuttering with your children.
Direct treatment is when the pathologist offers children specific speech strategies to speak more easily and fluently and to reduce the stress associated with episodes of stuttering. These are usually indicated for children aged 7 or older, when it is difficult to stop stuttering completely, to help reduce the severity and impact of the disorder on their daily life.
