Stuttering
Stuttering refers to a disruption in the fluency of speech. It is characterised by one or more of the following:
• Repeating sounds, words or phrases: d-d-d-d-dad / dad-dad-dad / I can – I can – run
• Prolonging sounds (sound is drawn out): ccccccccan I have one
• Blocking (blocks of silence before the sound begins): ——— can I go
• Facial grimaces, blinking, twitching or irregular breathing
Whilst some children spontaneously stop stuttering, most children require therapy. If stuttering is left untreated, the pattern can become established which makes it more difficult to treat.
The table below outlines some common myths and facts about stuttering.
Myth
Fact
Some information provided on this page was obtained from the Stuttering Unit, Bankstown Health Service, “Stuttering Fact and Fiction” and “Stuttering in the First Years of Life”.