School-age Stuttering Therapy: A burden, a challenge, or an opportunity?

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Re: School-age Stuttering

From: Nina Reeves
Date: 15 Oct 2012
Time: 21:58:54 -0500
Remote Name: 173.173.94.35

Comments

Hi Rachael; Thanks for your kind words regarding our book. I am glad that our work has been helpful for you. In response to your question(s)....Of course, there are no 'pat' answers to any of the questions you raised. Unfortunately, the underlying concepts of the questions you pose are intricate and complex. Therefore, I cannot do a complete discussion in the context of this online conference. (It would take a chapter or so...) Children who stutter come in all packages and begin therapy at all stages! A child who is not aware of stuttering can still learn about talking and the physiology of speech. A child who doesn't "want to be aware" can do the same, plus an SLP can work on the cognitive affective issues that may be underlying the child's outward denial. Children who "don't care" that they stutter can be solidified in their strength of character, and can still learn about talking and stuttering. In your final question, the operative word is "appear" to be invested. The best thing we can do is question ourselves before we question the child's reasons for not being invested. Motivation can wax and wane for internal (child-based) and external reasons. Sometimes children are not invested in therapy because therapy is not addressing their needs. As you can see, therapy for children who stutter can be one of the greatest opportunities for professional growth that you will ever experience!


Last changed: 10/22/12