Health Encyclopedia
Stuttering and children
Definition
Stuttering is a disorder that involves hesitation, repetition, or stumbling while speaking.
Alternative Names
Information
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:
8/18/2006
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.
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.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
