Stuttering (Children)

​There is no one cause of stuttering. Possible causes include:

• Family history
  Stuttering tends to run in the family. It can result from inherited (genetic) abnormalities.
• Difficulties in speech motor control
  Research has shown that difficulties in speech motor control, such as timing, sensory and motor coordination, may contribute to stuttering.
• Other illnesses
  Examples include stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other brain disorders.

​Some factors may indicate that your child is more at risk of stuttering. Knowing these factors will help you decide whether your child needs to see a speech therapist. These factors include:

• A family history of stuttering in a parent, sibling or other family members
• Stuttering at age two years old or later
• Stuttering persists for 6 to 12 months or longer
• Gender (boys are more likely to stutter)
• Difficulties in speech and language
  

​To help your child speak more smoothly, try the following:

• Allow talking to be fun and enjoyable.
• Avoid corrections or criticisms such as “slow down,” “take your time,” or “take a deep breath.” These comments, while well-intentioned, may make your child feel more self-conscious.
• Do not tell your child to think before speaking.
• Speak slowly and clearly when talking to your child, or with others in his or her presence. Modeling a slow rate of speech will help with your child’s fluency.
• Maintain eye contact and show that you are interested in what your child is saying. Try not to look away or show signs of being upset.
• Let your child speak for himself or herself and to finish thoughts and sentences.
• Interact with your child who stutters just as you would if he or she did not stutter.