Discovering your child has a stammer can be a challenging and concerning experience for parents. It’s natural to question whether it’s a temporary phase or a more persistent issue, and deciding on the best course of action can be difficult. Wondering if speech therapy is necessary, while also fearing it might be premature, is a common dilemma.
I personally developed a stammer around the age of four. My early childhood was marked by normal speech development, with my mother dedicating her time to childcare after ceasing employment upon my birth. The transition to school coincided with her return to work, leading to after-school care with a family friend named Jean and her son, Graham. My initial experience at Jean’s house was positive until dinner time.
Unlike the relaxed and informal mealtimes at home, Jean’s household observed a formal dining setting. The unfamiliar faces and the pressure of eating in front of them created a sense of discomfort. As I was asked questions during the meal, I struggled to respond, and this marked the beginning of my stammer. This was the first day I experienced a stammer.
My parents sought guidance from a speech therapist several months later, who reassured them that many children outgrow stammering. Unfortunately, my stammer persisted until I was twenty-two.
Living with a stammer significantly impacted my life. It influenced every decision I made and was a constant source of anxiety. The challenges extended to securing employment, forming relationships, and socializing, leading to periods of depression.
Stephen Hill