My Child Stutters

Children who stutter often feel “dumb” and their parents are embarrassed and annoyed when they can’t understand what the child is saying. Stuttering is most common among 2 to 7 year olds.

1. Children often stutter when they are trying to say new words and longer sentences. Be patient and encourage the child to talk. Listen without interrupting or correcting. Do not imitate the child or tease the child.
2. Do not punish a child for stuttering. It just makes the stuttering worse.
3. Some children stutter when they are nervous or afraid. Reassurance and patience are the best remedies here. Praise the child for the important things he says.
4. Most kids outgrow stuttering, but consult a speech pathologist if you have questions.