Sunday, October 5, 2008

People who stutter deserve to be heard without interruption

I have been so busy lately with work that I haven't had time to post. I just wanted to remind everyone again that International Stuttering Awareness Day is October 22, 2008. On this day, please remember that all people who stutter deserve to be heard without interruption. It is so important to let children and adults who stutter finish their thoughts and not tell them to slow down. This is not helpful to them and only causes them to speak faster and become frustrated. Practice groups for teens and adults are back in full swing this month. School age and adult intensive and refresher courses continue to be offered. I am seeing terrific results with a few adults who just finished and are working hard with their practice. I recently have gotten a few calls from parents of young children who stutter. It's great that parents are seeking early intervention. Lidcombe is a terrific and successful program for preschool children. As many of you know, I am also PROMPT Certified and had the privilege to walk on my dear friend's team today for the annual autism walk. I don't know if she would want her name mentioned because she is modest, but she is a super special education teacher and mother!!! Will post again soon and if anyone knows of a venue where I can write an article on stuttering to increase awareness please let me know. Remember if you meet someone who stutters, look them in the eyes, let them finish their sentences and listen to what they say rather than how!!