How do I manage my stuttering on a daily basis?

To help a child who stutters:

• Speak calmly and pause often. Use short, simple sentences.
• Establish a regular, uninterrupted quiet time to spend with your child each day. Let your child direct the activities, including conversation. Use slow, calm and relaxed speech, and pause often. Showing that you enjoy this time together can help build your child's confidence.
• Be polite and courteous when your child speaks. Avoid criticizing, interrupting or asking too many questions. Give your child the time and attention he or she needs to express thoughts and ideas.
• Use positive facial expressions and body language while listening to your child. When your child stutters, show that you are attentive and focused on the message rather than how he or she talks.
• Help all family members learn good communication skills. Make sure everyone makes an effort to listen attentively when talking with your child who stutters.
• Let your child know that you accept him or her no matter what. Support and unconditional love are the most important factors in helping a child overcome stuttering.

It is also helpful to keep a record of how your child's speech patterns improve or change. A speech-language pathologist can guide you on what to look for and how to keep track of your child's progress.

Make an appointment with your child's doctor or a speech-language pathologist if:

• You have any concerns about your child's speech.
• Stuttering lasts for more than 6 to 12 months.
• Stuttering runs in your family.

If you are an adult who starts stuttering for the first time, home treatment is not appropriate. See your health professional.

If you are an adult with ongoing or recurring stuttering, consult your health professional about resources to help improve your speech. Speech therapy will usually be advised; sometimes behavioral counseling may also be helpful.