What Parents Should Know about Stuttering

Stuttering is a condition characterized by disruptions in the typical flow of speech. These disruptions, known as disfluencies, can include repetitions, prolongations, or blocks in speech sounds. It’s important for caregivers of autistic children to understand stuttering, as it may co-occur with autism.

A young girl working on her speech-language therapy.

The Causes of Stuttering

There are several factors that can contribute to stuttering. Research indicates that stuttering often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component. Additionally, differences in brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to speech and language, have been found in individuals who stutter. This could be a result of delayed or atypical development. Stressful events or high parental expectations can exacerbate stuttering in some children, although these factors alone do not cause the condition.

How to Recognize Stuttering in Children

To recognize stuttering in children, look for repetitions of sounds, syllables, or words; prolongations of sounds; or blocks in speech where your child is unable to produce any sound. Physical tension, facial grimacing, and avoiding eye contact are some behaviors that may occur with stuttering. While it's common for young children to experience some disfluencies in their speech, stuttering tends to be more persistent and is often accompanied by the behaviors mentioned above.

How Stuttering Affects Children

Stuttering can have significant emotional and psychological effects on a child, such as embarrassment, frustration, or anxiety related to their speech, potentially leading to reduced self-esteem. Socially, stuttering can affect a child's ability to form and maintain friendships, as peers may not understand or be patient with a child's speech difficulties. Academically, stuttering can also impact a child's performance, as they may struggle with oral presentations or classroom participation.

A speech-language therapist and a young girl working on mouth movement.

Treatment Options for Stuttering

There are several treatment options for stuttering, including speech therapy with a speech-language pathologist who can work with your child to develop strategies for improving fluency and communication skills. Occupational therapy may help address any underlying sensory or motor issues contributing to stuttering. Parents can also reinforce therapy techniques at home, by modeling slow, relaxed speech and creating a supportive environment.

Tips for Supporting a Child Who Stutters

Encourage communication: Give your child time to speak, ask follow-up questions, and allow them to elaborate on their thoughts
Speak in full sentences and talk to your child often: This will provide your child with a strong language model
Foster a supportive environment: Educate others including teachers, peers, friends, and family about your child’s condition, and encourage open communication, patience, and understanding

Understanding stuttering and your available support options can help you create a nurturing environment for your child and equip you to support your child in overcoming the challenges associated with stuttering.