First “Stutter Camp” in Mobile aims to give kids confidence in communication

MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) — Happening today, a special camp for kids with speech impediments starts on the campus of the University of South Alabama. “Camp Dream Speak Live” is aimed at helping kids with the life-long challenge of stuttering.

One thing to know is that there is no cure for stuttering–but there are ways to improve a child’s confidence so the stutter doesn’t hold them back. The camp starts Monday morning at USA Speech Pathology Department.

I talked with two of the instructors who have helped put this together. This comes from the Blake Center for Stuttering Education and Research. The Blake Center offers free camps like this around the country and this is the first year this program is being offered at USA.

Through different educational and enrichment activities, the goal isn’t to help with fluency but make sure kids have the confidence to keep communicating despite their challenges.

“Help children who stutter and other stutter to improve their confidence about their ability to communicate effectively,” said Dr. Dahye Choi. The goal is to communicate without fear.

“It’s really just a great opportunity for the kids to learn how to be excellent communicators and be successful with that through real experiential learning,” said Clinical Instructor Brent Wiles.

This is based on the CARE model, which stands for: Communication, Advocacy, Resiliency and
Education.

They say stuttering is the tip of the iceberg and can lead kids into other difficulties like holding back speaking or communicating because they worry about their fluency.

The camp will have activities that emphasize a positive environment for communication.

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