Usually the educators (teachers, counselors, coaches) are the first responders (the first to notice) when a child stutters. It is also a concern on how to react when a child stutters. Please find hereunder a broad perspective divided by age group. This is by no means a comprehensive overview.
AGES: 1 to 5
At this early stage in their life children in this age group are beginning to learn their talking skills. Speech disfluencies are expected at that age at different levels. It is suggested that you confer with the parents to determine if a healthcare professional should be involved at this stage.
AGES: 6 to 10
If at this age the child did not overcome his initial speech disfluencies but got more severe it is recommended to immediately call the attention of the parents and a clinically certified speech language pathologist in order to assess the problem without delay. The earlier the speech disfluencies (stuttering) are addressed the easier they can be corrected. At this stage educators play a very important role in assisting the child overcome improper social behavior from his peers, such as teasing and bullying. This behavior should not be tolerated under no circumstances and stopped immediately. It is recommended that the child gets all the possible support the educator can provide.
Special attention should be given during verbal interaction with the child in the classroom. This interaction must be carefully directed to avoid undue anxiety.
AGES: 11 to 18
At this stage it is highly recommended that the teenager is provided with the most advanced treatment method available in order to correct his stuttering. The Concentrated method is the most successful and has the highest retention rate. It is usually applied in 2 weeks.
Please view the complete stuttering treatment overview and video presentation, it will provide you with a comprehensive insight of the stuttering treatment program, its advanced (21st century) technology, versatility and flexibility.