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Stuttering: What It Is & Why It Matters
Stuttering: What It Is & Why It Matters
Stuttering is a speech difference that can make talking feel effortful or "bumpy". Children who stutter may repeat sounds or words, stretch out sounds, or get stuck trying to say something. Stuttering often starts between the ages of 2 and 6 and can come and go.
Talking Differences: What’s Normal and What Might Be Stuttering
Talking Differences: What’s Normal and What Might Be Stuttering
Sometimes children repeat words or pause when they talk. That’s normal! But sometimes, it might be a sign of stuttering. Here’s how to tell the difference:
💬 Normal Talking Bumps (Typical Disfluency)
These are common and usually nothing to worry about:
Saying a word or phrase again
Example: “I want... I want a snack.”Using words like “um” or “uh”
Changing what they want to say
Example: “I want—can I have juice?”Talking without stress or frustration
⚠️ Stuttering (Needs Extra Help)
This might mean your child needs support from a Speech and Language Pathologist:
Repeating sounds
Example: “C-c-c-cookie”Stretching out sounds
Example: “Mmmmommy”Getting stuck and not being able to say a word
Showing signs of struggle (like blinking a lot or tensing up)
Feeling upset or avoiding talking
What Families Can Do
Small changes at home can make a big difference:
Give your child plenty of time to talk without rushing.
Take turns during conversations to reduce time pressure.
Model a slow, relaxed speaking style.
Focus on what your child says, not how they say it.
Let your child know: “It’s okay to stutter.”
Stay calm and patient—your child feels your energy.
Stuttering Things Families Can Do.pdf❌ Myths vs. ✅ Facts About Stuttering
❌Myth: Stuttering is caused by nervousness.
✅Fact: Stuttering is not caused by anxiety. It’s a difference in how the brain develops and controls speech.
❌Myth: Children will grow out of stuttering.
✅Fact: Some do—but others need support. It’s best not to “wait and see” for too long.
❌Myth: Telling kids to “slow down” helps.
✅Fact: This can increase pressure. There are more supportive ways to help.
❌Myth: Parents cause stuttering.
✅Fact: You didn’t cause it—but your support matters!
⏳ When to Seek Help
Families don’t need to wait until stuttering becomes a bigger concern. Consider reaching out to a Speech-Language Pathologist if:
The stuttering has lasted more than 6 months
Your child is getting frustrated, upset, or avoids talking
There is a family history of stuttering
Stuttering becomes more frequent, even if it comes and goes
Your child is school age and still stuttering often
Even if your child doesn’t need direct support right away, early guidance for families can be reassuring and helpful.
💡 What to Say to Your Child to Support their Speech
It’s okay to talk about stuttering—there’s no need to avoid the word. Saying it in a kind and supportive way helps your child feel safe and understood. Here are some gentle and helpful things you can say:
“Talking feels a little bumpy sometimes. That’s okay!”
“Everyone’s speech is different. You’re doing great.”
“I love hearing your ideas.”
“Take your time—I’m listening.”
Click here for a handout on helping children who stutter at home and in the classroom!
HelpingYourChildWhoStutters_website.pdfExtra Ideas
Extra Ideas
Here is a link to resources on the web related to supporting stuttering / fluency at home. Please note, these websites/apps have not been vetted by TVDSB, and as such, the use of these resources is ultimately the choice of the user and/or family. For more resources, please contact your school Speech and Language Pathologist.
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