Audio Read: How to Overcome Stuttering

To overcome stuttering, it helps to understand it. What is a stutter? What causes stuttering? How can stuttering best be addressed?

Professor Nigel MacLennan runs the performance coaching practice PsyPerform.

Please note that we update some of our articles. As a result, the audio read and the published article may not match.

[anamaeedmond]

Slower speech may be more calming and relaxing, especially if your child is very excited, frightened, angry, or upset.

[christophemahoney]

Children often stutter more when they are excited, scared, angry or upset or when they are time pressures.

[laurelgibbins]

There are many things you can do that may help a child to talk more smoothly. These strategies will not cure your child’s stuttering (bumpy speech). Instead, they are changes that you can make in your own speech, behaviour, or environment that may help your child during the bumpy times.

[neilmosby]

Using a slower rate of speech shows your child that it is okay to take his time.

[bonniegilbert]

Look at your child when he is talking and listen with interest. Try to be face to face with your child. When your child’s speech is bumpy, let him know that you are listening or that you have time to listen. Keep a positive expression on your face.

[mikaelamilstone]

Slowing your speech may decrease the sense of competition and time pressure during conversations by slowing down the pace of a conversation.

[elenalahey]

Reduce competition to talk. Have everyone in the family take turns in conversations. For example at the dinner table give each person a turn to talk without being interrupted.

[nathanielkeating]

Your child may or may not slow down his rate of speech when you talk more slowly; however, you may notice that your child stutters less.

[robinstinson]

Repeat or paraphrase (repeat what he is saying using different words) what your child has said using a slow, relaxed rate of talking.

[carolinewalsh]

Ask fewer questions or ask questions that your child can answer in a few words. Since children may feel stressed when under pressure to perform for others, don’t make your child talk in front of others. On smooth days give your child more chances to talk.

[monikarichards]

If your child knows he stutters or is frustrated about his stuttering, let him know you understand. Help your child say how he feels about the stuttering.

[rajwolowitz]

Adjust the demands for talking when your child’s speech is bumpy
All children have smooth days and bumpy days. Cut the number of times your child needs to talk or read aloud if he’s having a bumpy day.