How can I help my child when they stutter?

Stuttering can be a source of stress and uncertainty for both the child and the family. Parental support plays a crucial role in the development of speech and a child’s confidence. Below are practical, evidence-based strategies to support your child if they stutter:

• Give them unlimited time to speak. Avoid interrupting or finishing their sentences. Patience sends the message that what they have to say matters.
  • Reduce the number of questions you ask, especially rapid-fire ones. Choose comments that don’t require a response to ease verbal pressure.
  • Maintain eye contact and show through your posture that you care about what they say, not how they say it. Avoid showing fear, awkwardness, or excessive sympathy, as these can increase their anxiety.
  • Spend a few minutes each day in calm, one-on-one interaction. This strengthens your bond and creates a safe communication environment.
  • Speak slowly, with pauses and a calm tone. Children are strongly influenced by the speech patterns they hear at home.
  • Focus on their positive behaviors and build their confidence. Praise your child for everyday successes—not just speech-related ones.
  • Avoid phrases like: “Speak more clearly,” “Take a breath,” or “Relax.” These can increase pressure and are usually unhelpful.
  • Consult a Speech and Language Therapist early on, especially if stuttering persists for more than 6 months or worsens with stress. Early intervention is key to preventing chronic stuttering.

Maria Lazarou
Speech and Language Therapist (SLP, BSc, M.A)
Head of the Multidisciplinary Team at Evlogon