Post date: Jan 19, 2017 4:35:22 PM
Did you know that Darth Vader had difficulties with fluent speech? Well, technically it was his voice. James Earl Jones did the voice of Darth Vader and he has/had a stutter. In addition to him and King George VI (The King's Speech), there are about 65-million people world wide that have stuttering difficulties. In fact there are many more children that will go through what is considered 'typical stuttering' where they are dysfluent for a period of time and then it reduces or is eliminated without specific interventions. In the elementary school level changes at home or supports in the classroom can go a long way in managing speech fluency.
The information compiled on the attached document below will provide some background information and some classroom suggestions. While the strategies are identified for the classroom, they are just as applicable in the home environment. The bullet list is pulled from the National Stuttering Association www.westutter.org. They have a wealth of knowledge and resources for parents and families. It is often my first suggestion for parents looking to learn more. There is also this resource from fluencyfriday.org. There are many more resources online and otherwise as well. Here in the Denver area, we are very fortunate to have some pioneers in the are of speech fluency living and working locally. We also have a newly created community group devoted to supporting Douglas County parents: http://rxispeechblog.wixsite.com/spcws.
So the information here is only the tip of the iceberg. Ultimately, increasing fluent speech in the classroom and at home needs to include relaxation, giving our full attention, wait/time, standing against ridicule, and fostering an environment that reduces/eliminates interruptions, supports social engagement, and celebrates differences in a way that is not comparative but introspective.
If you have any questions please connect with your SLP Team for more information.