The writer of the following paper will be happy to respond to any questions in English or in the French language that are addressed to her about the L'Association des jeunes bègues du Québec (AJBQ).

Just say what you want, we will listen

by Rachel Fortin
from Quebec, Canada

The Association of Young Stutterers of Quebec (AJBQ) is a non-profit institution which was created in 1993. The AJBQ targets young stutterers between 2 and 25 years of age and their families. The ignorance of the public regarding stuttering, the lack of information about services offered to children who stutter and the need for support for young stutterers and their families led to the creation of the AJBQ.

Information for the general public

The AJBQ believes strongly in the need to inform the public about stuttering. At present there are many prejudices and myths that make everyday situations difficult for those who stutter. The AJBQ endeavours to inform the public about the nature of stuttering through the media (television programs that focus on family issues) and by taking part in conferences (eg: ABC-CAPS 1999). In addition, the AJBQ prepares a special conference for International Stuttering Awareness Day on October 22. In order to better inform the public, the AJBQ also offers free information about stuttering. We are very proud of a1999 booklet designed especially for teachers, people who are instrumental in helping children who stutter yet often do not know how to interact with a pupil who stutters. In addition to information about the nature of stuttering, this booklet explains what the teacher should do when interacting with the child or teenager who stutters and offers consultations for class presentations.

The young stutterer and his family

Regarding services offered directly to young stutterers and to their families, the AJBQ takes time to answer any questions. By providing accurate information and offering guidance to the young stutterer and the family we are able to reduce concerns . The AJBQ also offers evening informational meetings intended for the parents waiting for speech therapy services or whose children are currently receiving therapy.

Additional services are also offered to the members of association. We publish a newsletter five times each year and offer special rates for our conferences and other special activities where children who stutter and their families to get together. The Association also offers a special program connecting young stutterers with volunteers who are studying to be speech-language pathologists. This program consists of weekly telephone meetings, thus making it possible for young people anywhere in Quebec to participate. The purpose of this program is to make it possible for the young person to continue to practice therapy techniques and to be supported by another person in addition to their family.

Intensive fluency therapy

Since its creation, the AJBQ organizes intensive therapy. These intensive programs are offered to young people from 8 to 25 years, and last 6 days. Generally, 25 young people participate in these intensive therapy programs which are delivered by speech therapists. The program includes structured therapy as well as small and large group activities. The transfer of fluency techniques is carried out in less structured situations, such as during meals or during archery, climbing, astronomy, swimming, etc. The week provides approximately 75 hours of speech therapy. This intensive therapy makes it possible for the children to acquire an improved level of fluency while being supported and encouraged by other children, teenagers and young adults who also stutter.

In summary, the AJBQ is an association ready to do everything for the greater comfort of children who stutter and their families. Our watchwords are information, sensitizing and support. We know that children who stutter have a lot to say, in spite of their stuttering. For this reason we want to say to them: " Just say what you want, we will listen. "

You can post Questions/comments to the panel before October 22, 2000.

August 29, 2000