Hello :) I am 31 years old, but that little girl was once me. I am still outgoing, spunky, social, speak my mind— most of friends describe me as life of the party. My stutter has definitely held me back in some ways. But growing up, all of my teachers knew i stuttered and were my advocates. I was never forced to talk unless it was my choice. This is a disability and in school it is treated as such. Kids can be mean (about everything to everyone), but honestly no one ever really openly teased me about my stutter. At least to my face. I was outgoing, involved in sports, had boyfriends, and it did not hold me back socially. I went to college , and while there , told my counselor I had a disability. I emailed every professor before class and told them of my stutter. Being up front and open is so important because it takes some of the pressure off of feeling like you have to hide your stutter. Which in turn, can cause someone to maybe stutter a little bit less. Is it easy feeling different than everyone else ? No. Have I cried myself to sleep? Yes. Some days it’s still hard not to think “why me”?? I recently started therapy again. This time it is with the approach of self love and self acceptance. Which is a beautiful approach. My therapist told me I should do affirmations in the mirror — “I stutter and.... I’m a good friend”. “ i stutter and.. I’m patient.” Etc etc. maybe try that with your daughter ! I feel like I started that at an early age maybe my self talk would have not been so negative. Just a suggestion!! My dad has cried for me wishing he could take the pain and struggle from me and I’m sure you will too. But growing up in a household that practices self-love, freedom to express yourself (no matter how difficult it may be!), one that talks about feelings and acceptance - makes all of the difference. I do know one thing. Having amazing, supportive parents who were my biggest advocates has made me who I am today. And your little girl is SO lucky to have you as hers. I am a nanny- Working with children is my passion! Please feel free to reach out If you have any other questions at all. I’d be so happy to talk more !