Stammering
Overview
Stammering, also sometimes referred to as stuttering, affects speech and is relatively common in childhood. It can also can persist into adulthood.
Symptoms
Repeating sounds/words; stretching sounds; words getting stuck; physical tension.
Causes
It is not possible to say for sure why a child starts stammering, but it is not caused by anything the parents have done. Developmental and inherited factors may play a part, along with small differences in how efficiently the speech areas of the brain are working.
Treatment
There are different speech and language therapy approaches that can help people who stammer to speak more easily. You'll work with a therapist to choose a suitable plan tailored to your child or you. This may involve: creating an environment where your child feels more relaxed and confident about talkingstrategies to increase fluency and develop communication skillsworking on feelings associated with stammering, such as fear and anxiety Electronic devices to reduce stammering are also available and can help some older children and adults, but they're not usually available on the NHS. Find out more abouttreating stammering.
Prevention
Early intervention; Supportive environment (give time to speak).
When to see a doctor
You should get advice if you have any concerns about your child's speech or language development. Treatment for stammering is often successful in pre-school age children, so it's important to get advice as soon as possible. Talk to a GP or health visitor about your concerns. If necessary, they may refer your child to a speech and language therapist (SLT) for an assessment. In many areas, you can phone children's speech and language services directly and refer your child yourself. Stamma (the British Stammering Association)has more information and support for people who stammer and parents of stammering children. For support or to find out about the services available in your area, call the helpline on 0808 802 0002 or start a webchat (Monday to Thursday 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm). If you're an adult who stammers and it's having a significant impact on your social and work life, you may want to ask a GP to refer you to an SLT.