Understanding Normal Non-Fluency in Children

1. Children between the ages of 3 to 6 often go through a phase where they repeat words and phrases. This is a natural part of language development. During this time, they are learning to express themselves and are excited about sharing their experiences. They're still putting words together to communicate effectively, which may lead to repetitions.

2. It's important to know that this is a normal phase of language development and typically resolves on its own over time. However, parents sometimes mistake it for stammering and seek the help of a speech therapist.

During Normal Non-Fluency Phase, Children May Experience :

1. Repetition of words (e.g., "my my boat").

2. Repetition of phrases (e.g., "Give me candy, give me candy").

3. Use of filler words like "aaaa."

4. Lack of self-consciousness while speaking.

What Should Parents Do?

1. Stay Calm and Patient : Allow your child to finish what they want to say. Show them that you have time to listen.

2. Offer Appropriate Words : Provide your child with the right words or model complete sentences for them.

3. Use Simple Language : Speak to your child in simple sentences that are easy to understand.

4. Avoid Drawing Attention : Don't make your child aware of their bumpy speech. Ensure that family members also refrain from drawing attention to it and model slower speech in response to your child.

When Should Parents Intervene?

Normally, non-fluency usually resolves within 6 months to a year. However, if it continues to persist beyond this period and there's a family history of stammering, or if your child has experienced significant changes like moving to a new residence or school, it may be time to seek an assessment from a speech therapist. This evaluation can help determine whether your child is developing a stammer and guide appropriate interventions.

In Summary Normal non-fluency is a common and temporary phase of language development in children. Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children by understanding this phase, being patient and encouraging, and seeking professional help when necessary. By recognizing and appropriately addressing normal non-fluency, parents can help their children grow and develop into confident communicators.