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 Stuttering or stammering is a speech impediment where normal speech is disrupted. It is a communication disorder wherein sounds or noises, syllables, alphabets and words are continuously repeated and stretched. The stammering becomes more severe when the stutterer is very conscious of his speech, and each sound emanating from the mouth. This is the reason why a person stutters even more when talking to a person, or group, face to face. On the other hand, it decreases momentarily when speaking or singing in chorus. Stuttering is usually accompanied by nervous facial actions, like rapidly blinking the eye or quivering of the lips. Though the exact cause of this disorder is not understood, it is broadly divided into two types.

1. Developmental Stuttering: Developmental Stuttering is a more common and occurs in childhood, while children are still trying to learn speech and language skills
2. Neurogenic Stuttering: Neurogenic Stuttering may occur after a cerebrovascular accident (stroke), head injury, or any other type of brain injury.

Treatment

Though there is no exact cure for stuttering, there are various treatments available which can make a big difference. The kind of treatment will vary, depending mainly upon the age, communication goals and several other factors like family history. The treatment mainly involves speech exercises and speech therapy.

Early intervention in young children, by means of therapy can help minimize or even eliminate the problem.

Since Developmental Stuttering is more common, in this article, we will talk about steps which can be taken in the home environment that will help the child stutter to a great extent.

Breathing Exercise for Stuttering

The breathing exercise will help the child to breathe normally and naturally during a conversation. During speech therapy, the speech therapist makes the patient repeat a vowel for a long period of time, followed by deep breathing (inhalation and exhalation). As the patient reaches a comfort zone, the therapist increases the number of vowels followed by the deep breathing exercises. Gradually, the therapist will start including syllables and sentences, followed by continuous natural breathing. The child may perform these breathing exercises at home, preferably with the help of a family member.

Family Support

Big part of helping children involves educating the family on how to help deal with the problem. Mentioned below are some efforts which the family can take to help children who stutter.

• Provide a relaxed atmosphere and take time out to talk to the child.
• Do not react negatively when the child is speaking. Listen attentively, wait for him to complete the word, and sometimes gently help correct it.
• During a conversation, pause for some time before responding. This helps in reducing the pace of conversation, thereby making it easier for the child.
• Do not constantly pressurize children to speak in a certain manner, or force them to speak in front of outsiders.
• Talk to the child specifically and honestly about the problem and let him/her know that it is alright to stutter.
• Many children who stutter, are often teased for their impediment. Depending upon a number of factors, including the child’s comfort level, sometimes it may be a good idea to include siblings, friends and even teachers in the therapy. This can be achieved with the help of a speech therapist, who can educate them on how to interact with a child stutterer.
• Most importantly, be positive and try to convince the child that the stuttering problem can be cured with a little bit of effort and discipline.
• These guidelines are not a substitute for professional help, but are steps which can be taken along with therapy.

References:    

1. http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/voice/pages/stutter.aspx
2. http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/medicaldepartments/otolaryngology/stutteringtherapy/index.html

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

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