Stammering

What Causes Stammering?

It is not clear what causes stammering and it is thought there various causes all contribute to the condition. These causes may be genetic or environmental

Recent research suggests that some people who stammer may have difficulty co-ordinating the muscles for speech, and need more time to speak.

How Common Is Stammering In Children?

Stammering usually begins in childhood between the ages of three and five. Four per cent recover, with or without help, so that only one per cent of adults stammer.

It's four times more common in boys than in girls, and in any family with a person who stammers there's an increased risk that other family members will have the same problem.

What Are The Symptoms Of Stammering In Children?

The stammer may vary according to a child’s surroundings. The stammer may present as a problem initiating any speech at all of flowing between syllables. All stammers sound different. Some stammering children deal with the problem by not speaking at all.

How Is Stammering In Children Diagnosed?

Stammering can be diagnosed by a speech therapist. They are able to advise you on exactly what the problem is and how best to treat it. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a speech therapist.

How Can Stammering In Children Be Treated?

There is no cure for stammering but the following behaviours can help. Your speech therapist will be able to advise on your child’s particular case

• speaking more slowly
• formal speech therapy
• development of social skills
• self awareness, assertiveness and communication skills training