Stuttering and children

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Stuttering is a disorder that involves hesitation, repetition, or stumbling while speaking.

Some young children stutter in response to stress, fatigue, or excitement. Stuttering can also be triggered if a child feels rushed, self-conscious, or pressured. Whatever the trigger, most children outgrow the problem. Occasional, mild stuttering is common in 3- and 4-year olds.

Listen patiently to your child, make eye contact, don't interrupt, ignore the stuttering, and show love and acceptance. If the stuttering continues longer than 6 months, the "blocked" speech lasts several seconds, or if the child shows obvious facial tension when stuttering, seek professional help.

See also stuttering and preschooler development.

Review Date: 08/18/2006
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.