Parenting 101: Who Knew? (Kimberly Garvin, Guest Blog)
Parenting is difficult enough without the addition of a stutter.
Yep I said exactly how each and every one of us feels or has felt on occasion.
That this thing…this “stutter” is making my job as a parent and compromising those feelings reserved only for my child especially difficult.
And, when you compare my disfluent hiccup of challenges. Those feelings of unconditional patience and acceptance that are specifically reserved for our “unconditional loves” yet with conditions…
Did I cause this, how do I fix this?
Why can’t I fix this?
Man, this is really really hard for everyone, and how do I help [insert child’s name] navigate this amongst all of the other greats life has to offer.
And, if you’re lucky, you’ll be fortunate enough to happen upon Schneider Speech, a family-team of professional dedicated to supporting those with speech differences. They work in a way I consider to be most unconventional; most conversations start with one question that immediately pivots the way you view stuttering. Sharing “the one question” would do you the disservice of discovery…
I will say this; my perspective is ever-changing as a result, and my son who is a true believer and beneficiary would agree.
SO! If you are on the fence about speech therapy and what that may look like, I suggest reaching out to Schneider Speech.
Sir’s [because that’s what I call them] …it is indeed a pleasure. And, I am thankful for you both in our lives.
Shalom
Kimberly
Photo courtesy of The Voorhees Sun
KIMBERLY GARVIN is a professional speaker and author with a passion for engaging audiences, connecting people, and bringing out the best in those she encounters on a daily basis. Through her prolific speaking career, as well as her peerless gift for writing, Kimberly has touched thousands of lives, bringing confidence and wisdom to those who are exposed to her way of thinking. Kimberly holds a degree in mass communications from Fairleigh Dickinson University. When she’s not on stage or at a book signing, Kimberly loves writing, reading and spending time with friends and family.
When Oliver Speaks (Indigo River Publishing)
Co-authored by Kimberly Garvin and her son Saadiq Wicks.
The story of a boy who faces stuttering and situations like public speaking in front of class, and the journey from struggle and fear to confidence and courage, with the help of his mom.
When Oliver Speaks
Co-authored by Kimberly Garvin and her son Saadiq Wicks.
Lllet Me Finish
Established by 8-year-old Saadiq and led today by high-school graduate Saadiq.
A non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young people who stutter that they may feel successful in school and within their community.