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If you notice one day that your child has developed a stutter, lisp, or other speech disorder, it’s easy to panic. As a parent, you’re probably already thinking of how it will affect their schooling and social interactions. However, staying calm and optimistic for your child’s sake is important. Check out these five myths about childhood speech disorders to inform you as you navigate this journey with your child.
Myth #1: Speech Disorders Are Signs of Cognitive Delay
If you’ve noticed that your child has a speech disorder, you may wonder if it is linked to another disorder. While some speech and language problems are signs of ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and other cognitive disorders, many speech issues are isolated issues. Just like some kids have trouble understanding fractions, others struggle to make the “th” sound. Speech is a multi-faceted skill that takes time to learn, so your child’s delay in mastering some of its technicalities is not cause for concern.
Myth #2: Speech Disorders Never Go Away
This belief is also false, to a degree. It entirely depends on the child, the type of disorder, and the kind of treatment the child receives. Many kids grow out of their speech difficulties with enough time or—more likely—therapy. This is why it’s important to take your child to a pediatrician as soon as you notice something is wrong.
Myth #3: Kids with Speech Disorders Will Be in Special Education
Another fear that parents often have is that a speech disorder will prevent their child from participating in a regular classroom setting. Again, there’s no one-size-fits-all education plan, so what kind of classroom your child needs will depend greatly on the nature of their disorder.
However, it’s entirely possible that your kid will be able to attend regular classes at school for at least most of the day—they may just need to spend time with a school speech therapist. Alternatively, many parents prefer online therapy for their child, as one of the benefits of hiring an online speech therapist is that your kid won’t be taken out of class and singled out.
Myth #4: Speech Disorders Are the Parents’ Fault
As a parent, you may feel pressure to assume responsibility for all your child’s struggles. However, your child having a speech disorder is not your fault, and it’s most likely caused by something you had no control over. You can focus instead on what you can control by continuing to give them your love and support.
Myth #5: Kids With Speech Disorders Won’t Be Successful
The most damaging myth about childhood speech disorders is that it prevents kids from being successful. Plenty of actors, musicians, and world leaders have had speech problems—even President Joe Biden.
Realizing that your child has a speech problem can be stressful, but the issue should never reflect poorly on you or your child. Kids with speech disorders can still attend school, make friends, and be successful—they just need your love and support.
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