The summer is flying by and another year of school is just around the corner! Going back to school after a relaxing summer can cause some stuttering symptoms to manifest themselves again. But do not fear, The Stuttering Foundation has created some tips to help you through the transition. Here are a few of them!
1.Start Small: You may feel pressure to jump in and meet lots of new people to start the year off strong. But don't pressure yourself! Try, for example, just meeting with teachers one on one. Talking with just one person, even if it's just about summer vacation, can be a great confidence booster and will set your year off right!
2. Join Teams: Participating in a team or a club can be a great way to become more comfortable talking in small groups. If you find yourself immersed in something you love, whether it be anything from a basketball team to the yearbook club, you will find that by participating you become less worried about stuttering and more comfortable talking with others.
3. Practice: There's a saying that goes "practice makes perfect". Even though, no one is perfect and there will always be some hiccups along the way, making an effort to practice presentations in front of a mirror or others can make all the difference when the actual presentation date comes around. Try practice speaking in front a mirror, in front a family member or a friend or acting your presentation out. The more practice you have, ultimately, the more comfortable you will be.
4. Be Fearless: Stuttering should never control your life. Don't let your fear of stuttering stop you from following your dreams. If you want to do something, and you're motivated and driven to do it, then try to put your fears aside and just do it!
Do you have any tips on dealing with stuttering in the back to school season? Email us at cs-info@stutter.ca or tweet us at @CSAStuttering and let you know what you think!