Stuttering in children is usually temporary and can go away on its own with age. However, there are also children who experience stuttering into adulthood. In this case, handling steps need to be taken to prevent children from having difficulty communicating.
Stuttering is usually experienced by children aged 18–24 months. This condition is common, because this age period is the time when children begin to learn to hone their speaking and language skills. Thus, no special handling is needed to overcome it.
However, in some other cases, stuttering in children can continue into adulthood. This of course makes it difficult for children to communicate with others and can cause their quality of life to decline, so they need to be addressed.
Causes of Stuttering in Children
The exact cause of a child's stuttering is still unknown. However, stuttering in children is thought to occur due to various factors, such as:
heredity
Stuttering in children can be genetic or inherited from parents. Some research reveals that about 60% of children who stutter have family members who also stutter.
Disorders of the brain
Stuttering in children can also occur if there is a disturbance in the nerves or parts of the brain that control language and speech abilities. In addition to stuttering, this disorder can also make children slurred to the point of not being able to speak.
In addition to the above factors, a child's risk of stuttering may also increase if he or she is a boy or is under stress, such as being overworked or being bullied (bully) from his friends.
How to Overcome Stuttering in Children
Treating stuttering in a child may not completely eliminate the stuttering. This treatment is more aimed at improving children's speech, communication, and participation in daily life.
To overcome stuttering in children, here are some ways you can do:
1. Do speech therapy
If your child has difficulty speaking or stutters, don't hesitate to take him to the doctor. To determine the cause of your child's stuttering, the doctor will perform a physical examination, evaluation of growth and development, and a psychological examination.
After that, the doctor can provide treatment according to the cause of stuttering in children. Some of the efforts that doctors can do to overcome stuttering are speech therapy and psychotherapy.
2. Practice your child's speaking skills regularly
In addition to getting treatment from a doctor, you are also advised to train your child's speech skills at home. Dealing with a child who stutters requires a lot of patience. Therefore, listen carefully and carefully what is said by the child.
Don't let your child know you're annoyed or impatient when he's talking. Also, avoid interrupting him as much as possible, finishing his words, or constantly asking what he has to say.
3. Always try to speak calmly
In addition to paying attention to what your child is saying, try to speak calmly and slowly. Make the atmosphere at home calm, comfortable, and ask other family members to talk calmly to your child too.
4. Avoid certain words
When you notice your child is stuttering, you may want to say, "Speak slowly!" or “Try to speak more clearly!”. Even if the intentions are good, you are advised to avoid these words so that the child does not lose his confidence.
5. Invite children to read
You can also invite your child to read aloud. This method can teach your child to breathe properly while talking. Although it may be difficult at first, try to help her slowly.
Also, try to take time to talk alone with your child. This is expected to improve their ability to communicate.
Stuttering in children can often improve within a few months, provided you regularly train and guide him in speaking. However, if your child's stuttering doesn't go away after more than 6 months, you should immediately consult a pediatrician.
