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From: Louis Roden
Date: 15 Oct 2004
Time: 16:59:32 -0500
Remote Name: 67.94.234.10
Hello Jenny! Firstly, THANK YOU for going into the field! Helping children through such difficult times is not only fulfilling, its downright noble! Its hard, as every situation can be different, but here is some general, "universal" advise to the parents and siblings of a child that stutters... 1. Avoid comments like "slow down","think of what you want to say first", or similar suggestions. By 9 or 10 years old, we have tried all those things - promise! It probably doesnt help, and has little to do with our stutter. In fact... despite your loving intentions... it frustrates us even more, because it makes us feel like you dont understand! 2. Don't talk about our stutter in front of us like we're not there! (That made me feel so sad when I was that age!) By all means talk about it, just INCLUDE me if I am there! 3. BE PATIENT 4. Hug me...ALOT. unconditional love is critical. 5. Talk to my teachers at the start of each year. Tell them the truth! I am bright and capable and kind... and I have a disability and may need the occasional accomodation! Dont make me read out loud unless I volunteer... help me educate my classmates... let ME demonstrate the things I do well! (music, art, etc...) Whew! Thats a start! I dont mean to preach Jenny...sorry if it sounds like that! I just recall so well how your student likely feels.