Top Tips for Supporting a Child with a Stammer

Stammering affects around 1 in 100 children in the UK, and while it can be concerning for parents, there's plenty you can do to support your child. The key is creating an environment where they feel confident and comfortable communicating.

Stay Calm and Patient

Children often pick up on parental anxiety about their stammer. Maintain a relaxed attitude during conversations. If your child stammers, resist the urge to finish their words or rush them. Give them time to speak, even if it feels uncomfortable. Your patience demonstrates that communication is more important than perfect fluency.

Reduce Pressure to Speak

Avoid putting your child on the spot to speak in front of others or to recite information. Some children stammer more when they feel under pressure or rushed. Create a calm, unhurried atmosphere at mealtimes and during conversations where everyone gets a turn to speak without interruption.

Listen to the Message, Not the Stammer

Focus on what your child is saying rather than how they're saying it. Make eye contact, show genuine interest, and respond to their ideas. This reinforces that their thoughts and feelings matter, regardless of any speech difficulties.

Model Slow, Clear Speech

Speak at a slightly slower pace than usual. This doesn't mean unnaturally slow or exaggerated, just a comfortable, relaxed pace. Children often mirror the speech patterns they hear, so demonstrating unhurried communication can be beneficial.

Create Communication-Friendly Situations

Reduce demands on your child's speech by:

• Asking open-ended questions rather than rapid-fire questions
• Limiting interruptions and turn-taking during conversations
• Avoiding situations where they must speak quickly or under pressure
• Providing positive feedback when they communicate, regardless of fluency

Professional Support

A speech and language therapist specialising in stammering can provide strategies for both you and your child. Therapy isn't about forcing fluency but rather building confidence and developing techniques that work for your individual child.

Reassurance and Acceptance

Many children who stammer grow out of it naturally, particularly if they receive support early. Even if stammering persists, with the right help and attitude, children can develop confidence and effective communication strategies. Never make your child feel ashamed of their stammer—acceptance and support are crucial.