Stuttering in children: when to worry and how to help

What is stuttering?

Stuttering is a disruption in the flow of speech: the child repeats sounds or syllables ("b-b-ball"), stretches sounds out, or gets stuck trying to speak. It usually starts between ages 2 and 5, when language is developing very quickly. About 5 to 10 percent of children stutter at some point and most outgrow it, but when it lasts more than a few months, gets worse, or causes tension or embarrassment, it is worth an evaluation.

How we treat it

We evaluate how, when, and how much your child stutters, and how they react to it. Depending on age, treatment may focus on changing how the family talks with the child (less pressure, more time) or on teaching techniques to speak more fluently and confidently. The goal isn't just speech without blocks: it's for your child to enjoy communicating. Your role at home is key, and we guide you every step of the way.

General information for guidance only. It does not replace a professional evaluation.