Stuttering is a complex disorder that involves much more than breaks or hesitations in speech, according to Marshall communication disorders professor and stuttering specialist Craig Coleman.
“Children can experience negative emotions or thoughts related to their stuttering. This can cause them to feel very different from their peers and lead to social avoidance,” Coleman said. “Last year, we held the first annual Stuttering U. program designed to educate speech-language pathologists about stuttering, and empower children and families to manage stuttering effectively. Watching the changes in the children and families over the three days was awe-inspiring.”
Coleman said participants of the Stuttering U. summer camp will have an opportunity to develop their own support networks, learn about stuttering and work on communication in many real-world settings.
The second annual Stuttering U. camp is geared toward children who stutter (7-18 years of age) and their families. At least one parent of the child must be present for the duration of the program. The three-day camp will be June 25-27 at Marshall University with a two-day continuing education session on June 23-24 for speech-language pathologists and students. A second continuing education event will be held at West Virginia University on July 23-24.
“The program was a success for the children and their families as well as the speech-language pathologists and our students at Marshall. We are excited to continue partnering with West Virginia University to continue this important program,” Coleman said.
Mary Weidner, a speech-language pathologist and a current doctoral student in the West Virginia University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, said this is the only camp in the country that tailors educational programming to meet the needs of children who stutter, their families and professionals.
“We offer a very unique experience for those affected by stuttering in a fun, supportive environment,” Weidner said. “We are planning many fun activities which will challenge campers to take risks and make lasting memories. We will hold true to our motto: “Be Brave. Be Amazing. Be U.”
For more information on the 2015 Stuttering U. summer camp and how to register, contact Coleman at craig.coleman@marshall.edu or visit www.stutteringu.com online.
