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Fluency, Confidence, and Communication: Supporting Your Child Who Stutters

As a parent, it can be concerning to hear your child get “stuck” on words or repeat sounds. You might wonder: Is this just a phase, or something more? Let’s break down what stuttering is, what’s typical in early childhood, and how speech therapy can help.


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What is Stuttering?

Stuttering is a type of fluency disorder, meaning it affects the smooth, easy flow of speech. Children who stutter might:

  • Repeat sounds, syllables, or whole words (e.g., “ba-ba-ba-ball”)

  • Stretch out sounds (e.g., “mmmmmmommy”)

  • Pause or get “stuck” when trying to speak

These disfluencies can come and go. They often increase when a child is excited, tired, or talking under pressure. Stuttering isn’t caused by anxiety or parenting style—it’s a neurological difference that affects how speech is produced.


What’s Typical and What’s Not?

Many children go through a developmental stuttering phase, especially between the ages of 2 and 5. Their speech systems are growing quickly, and sometimes their words just can’t keep up with their thoughts.

But some signs may indicate your child could benefit from extra support:

  • The stuttering has lasted longer than six months

  • Your child seems frustrated or aware of their speech

  • You notice facial tension or body movements during speech

  • There’s a family history of stuttering

When in doubt, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help determine whether your child’s stuttering is typical or may benefit from early support.


What Does Speech Therapy Look Like?

Therapy for stuttering is individualized, gentle, and often play-based. The best part? It involves parents just as much as children.

An SLP will guide you in:

  • Creating a low-pressure communication environment

  • Supporting your child’s confidence as a communicator

  • Learning how to respond helpfully when your child stutters

It’s not about “fixing” your child. It’s about giving them the tools and support to communicate freely, confidently, and without fear.


Everyday Strategies for Smoother Speech

Here are three simple strategies you can start using today to support your child’s speech at home.

  • Speak Slowly to Your Child Instead of telling your child to slow down, slow yourself down. When you model a relaxed pace, you help your child feel less rushed and more at ease when talking. Try pausing between phrases and using a calm tone.

    For example: “Hmm... It looks like you had fun building that tower... Tell me more.”

  • Reduce Speaking DemandsAvoid rapid-fire questions or interrupting. Let your child take their time. You can also reframe questions as comments to reduce pressure.

    Instead of: “What did you do at school today?” Try: “It looks like you had a fun day at school.”

  • Praise Smooth SpeechGently acknowledge moments of smooth talking. This boosts your child’s confidence without making speech feel like a performance.

    Try saying: “That was really clear — I loved how you told that story!”

These strategies aren’t meant to stop stuttering entirely. They’re about building a safe and encouraging environment where your child feels confident speaking up.



You’re Not Alone

If you're feeling unsure about your child’s speech, you're not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Early support can make a huge difference. At Serenity Speech & Language, we’re here to guide and support your child’s communication journey with care and expertise.


Resources We Love

Here are some trusted resources for learning more about childhood stuttering:


References

 
 
 

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