Prevent Stuttering

When children start elementary school, their stuttering, for the most part, usually declines.  This is because they are starting to communicate more with others.  However, if the child continues to stutter, they are usually cognizant of it and may feel ashamed. 

If their classmates and friends find out about their speech disorder, more attention will be drawn to it and they'll get teased endlessly.

Children like to tease as part of their routine as being children.  In this life, someone will always be teased.  It's better for the child to be prepared beforehand so they'll know what to expect.  They will have to learn to deal with the situation on their own. 

Mommy and daddy will not always be there to protect them.  They have to learn how to respond in the right way and not react to what is going on.  Reacting is when they get angry and want to retaliate.  That's not the best way to handle the situation.  They need to respond with class and confidence.  The child cannot let the others know that it is bothersome. They must rise above it. 

There are things that a teacher can do to help the student overcome these teasing episodes they may face:

• Talk to the student regarding the teasing episodes and find out what kind of assistance you can provide.
• Make the classroom a place where people can accept one another's differences.
• Handle teasing episodes with students in a diplomatic matter.  However, keep in mind that there may be a need for additional intervention from other administration and of course, the parents.
• If you need further assistance with this, contact professionals that can help you deal with the situation.  There are plenty of materials available that discuss teasing among students and how to diffuse it.
• Let the child know that you have their best interest at heart.  They need to be assured that you will do everything that you can to make them feel comfortable in the classroom.
• Another thing that teachers can do is to allow the stuttering student to speak in class.  They can educate the other classmates on the topic of stuttering. 

They can act as an advocate and provide information that can help their classmates understand what stuttering is all about.  This can help the classmates be more accepting of the student that stutters.