Information for Parents

The following suggestions relate to the modeling of appropriate speech, language, and fluency. As a parent, your speech and communication behaviors are critical influences in your child’s life. This is an excerpt from Color Me FluentTM. You can buy the full program here.

  1. It is usually not wise to mention the word stuttering or any other word relating to the way your child speaks. Treat him/her as if he/she were speaking normally. Try not to make comments or show surprise by facial expression or body posture during your child’s disfluent episodes. One exception: If your child says, “I can’t say that” or refers to speech as difficult, reassure him/her and acknowledge the stuttering, but without labeling it.
  2. Refrain from talking like a “broadcaster” to your child or using “baby talk.” Speak simply, using short sentences. At times, children need to hear simple examples of speech, even if they understand more complex adult speech.
  3. Provide models of rhythmic speech even if your child is speaking well. At any time, your child’s fluency could become vulnerable.