Stuttering & Fluency
If your child is stuttering, we’re here to support them in communicating more smoothly and with confidence
Stuttering & Fluency
If your child is stuttering, we’re here to support them in communicating more smoothly and with confidence
Understanding Stuttering in Children
Stuttering is a communication difference that affects the flow or fluency of speech. It may involve:
- Repetitions — repeating sounds (“b-b-ball”), syllables (“ba-ba-ball”), or whole words (“I-I-I want”)
- Prolongations — stretching sounds out (“ssssnake”)
- Blocks — getting stuck and no sound comes out, sometimes with visible tension
Stuttering often begins between ages 2 to 5, when children’s language is developing rapidly. About 5% of children go through a period of stuttering, and the majority outgrow it by themselves. For some children, however, stuttering may continue, and early support can make a meaningful difference.
The exact cause of stuttering is not fully known, but it has a strong genetic and neurological basis. Factors such as excitement, anxiety, or pressure can sometimes make stuttering more noticeable.
When Should You Seek Support?
It may be helpful to speak to a speech therapist if you notice:
- Your child has been stuttering for more than 6 months
- There is a family history of stuttering
- Your child is showing frustration, avoidance, or awareness of their stuttering
- Stuttering is getting worse over time
- Your child’s stuttering includes tension, struggle, or secondary behaviours (e.g., eye blinking, head movements)
- Your child is over age 4 and still stuttering
Early assessment doesn’t commit you to therapy. It gives you information and a plan.
Our Approach to Stuttering
For preschool children (2–6 years)
We use evidence-based early intervention approaches, including parent-supported programs such as the Lidcombe Program where appropriate. Therapy is tailored to your child and family, and we guide you on how to support your child’s speech in everyday conversations in a way that feels comfortable and manageable.
For school-age children, teens and adults
- Camperdown Program
- Fluency shaping techniques — strategies to establish fluency and eliminate or minimize disfluencies
- Stuttering modification — helping your child speak with less tension and feel more in control when they get stuck
- Cognitive approaches — addressing thoughts and feelings about stuttering
- Communication confidence — building confidence to speak in various situations
- Self-advocacy skills — helping children understand and talk about their stuttering
For all ages
- Comprehensive assessment of stuttering severity, impact, and risk factors
- Parent education and coaching
- Collaboration with teachers and school staff when helpful
- Support for the whole family in understanding stuttering
FAQs
Will my child grow out of stuttering?
Many young children who begin stuttering do see it improve over time, especially within the first year. However, for some children, stuttering may persist. Factors such as family history, how long the stuttering has been present, and how it is progressing over time can give us some indication. It can be difficult to predict early on, and an assessment can help you better understand your child’s profile and whether support would be helpful.
Should I tell my child to slow down or take a breath?
While these suggestions are well meaning, they can actually increase feelings of frustration and self-consciousness. Instead, model slow, relaxed speech yourself, maintain natural eye contact, and give your child time to finish without rushing them. Show interest in what they are saying, rather than how they are saying it. We’ll provide specific guidance tailored to your child during assessment or therapy.
Does stuttering affect academic performance?
Stuttering itself doesn’t affect a child’s learning ability. However, it may impact how they participate in class, particularly during speaking tasks such as presentations, group discussions or oral exams. At times, it may also affect how children socialise with their peers. Our therapists specialise in working with schools, and are able to support families with seeking appropriate school or exam accommodations where needed.
Concerned About Your Child’s Fluency?
Our speech therapists can assess your child’s stuttering and guide you on the best approach. Book a free discovery call to get started.
Our Specialists in This Area
Let's connect!
We'd love to have a free 15-minute chat with you to discuss any queries you may have. Think of it as a friendly strategy session to help you explore your child's communication development.