Practical strategies to support young children who stammer

Stammering, also known as stuttering, is a speech disorder where the flow of speech is interrupted by involuntary repetitions and prolongations of sounds, syllables, or words, and by pauses or blocks that disrupt communication.

Stammering often begins in early childhood, typically between the ages of 2 and 5, when children are developing their speech and language skills.

Yes, stammering is relatively common. Around 5% of children go through a period of stammering that lasts six months or more.

The exact cause of stammering is not known, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic predisposition, neurophysiological factors, and environmental influences.

Many children who stammer will outgrow it without needing any formal treatment, especially if the stammering starts at a young age. However, for some children, stammering can persist and may need intervention.

Parents can support their child by creating a relaxed and supportive speaking environment, listening attentively, and avoiding rushing or interrupting the child. It's also beneficial to model slow and calm speech.

It’s important not to criticize or show frustration about the stammer. Instead, be patient and give your child time to finish speaking. Drawing attention in a supportive way, like acknowledging effort, can sometimes be helpful.

Encouraging a child to speak more fluently may increase pressure and anxiety, leading to more stammering. Instead, focus on what the child is saying rather than how they say it.

Yes, speech and language therapy can be very effective in helping children who stammer. Therapists can provide strategies and exercises tailored to each child's needs.

Teachers can support a child who stammers by creating a positive classroom environment, giving the child plenty of time to speak, and not pressuring them to answer quickly or in front of the class if it causes stress.

Yes, stammering can sometimes affect a child's self-esteem and confidence. It's important to provide emotional support and encourage open communication about their feelings.

No, there is no connection between stammering and intelligence. Stammering is a speech disorder that does not affect cognitive abilities.

Stress and anxiety do not cause stammering but can exacerbate it. Reducing stress and anxiety through supportive environments can help manage stammering.

Yes, there are various support groups and organisations, such as the British Stammering Association (STAMMA), that offer resources, advice, and support for children who stammer and their families.

Some children find technology and speech apps helpful as part of a broader speech therapy program. These can provide practice and reinforce strategies learned in therapy.