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Stammering (Stuttering)
A senior colleague once shared how she helped a child overcome stammering, which raises an important question—what exactly is stammering?

Stammering (also known as stuttering) is a speech fluency difficulty in which a person struggles to speak smoothly. It may present as repeating sounds (e.g., “I-I-I want…”), stretching sounds (“sssschool”), or experiencing blocks where no sound comes out despite trying to speak.

It is important to note that stammering is not a sign of low intelligence, stubbornness, or bad behavior.

The condition is multifactorial. It may arise from neurological differences in speech coordination, genetic factors, rapid language development where thoughts outpace speech, or environmental pressures such as interruptions and criticism. While anxiety does not cause stammering, it can worsen it.

Certain reactions from adults can unintentionally increase the difficulty. Frequently telling a child to “talk properly,” interrupting them, completing their sentences, or comparing them with others can heighten pressure and self-consciousness, making speech more difficult.

Supportive responses, however, can make a significant difference. Listening patiently, maintaining eye contact, allowing the child to finish speaking, and modeling slow, calm speech all help to create a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Ultimately, the goal is not only improved speech but also the child’s confidence and emotional well-being.

In the case shared by my colleague, she consistently applied these supportive strategies and even collaborated with the child’s school to ensure a similar approach. Over time, the child’s stammering reduced naturally.

However, professional help should be considered if the stammering persists beyond six months, worsens over time, or leads to frustration or avoidance in the child.

Finally, as parents and caregivers, our response plays a crucial role—not just in speech development, but in shaping a child’s confidence and sense of safety.

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