5 Strategies That Create a Safe Space at Home for Children Who Stutter
- National Stuttering Association
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
For children who stutter, home should be the one place where they feel safe… emotionally and physically. But sometimes, without realizing it, how we respond to stuttering can create a hostile home environment. We might jump in to help with words or offer advice that feels supportive, but instead, it sends the message that stuttering is something to be ashamed of and to fix.
At the National Stuttering Association (NSA), we unconditionally believe your child’s voice matters. These five simple strategies can help you build a home environment that supports stuttering calmly and effectively.
1. Slow Down—But Not Just for Them
One of the best ways to lower communication pressure is to adjust your own pace. Children often match the energy around them. Avoiding rushing through conversations sends a message that this is a place where we take our time.
Try this: Leave space before and after your child speaks. Wait a second or two before responding. It shows them you are not in a hurry—and they do not have to be either.
2. Respond to Children Who Stutter with Reassurance
Phrases like “slow down” or “take a deep breath” can feel like pressure, even when said with care. What your child needs most is to feel heard and accepted in the moment.
Instead of: “You stuttered, try it again.” “Try to slow down.” “Relax your mouth.”
Try this: “I’m listening to you.” “Take your time to say what you want to say.” “Thanks for sharing that with me.”
3. Focus on the Meaning
Children notice what gets praised. If compliments only come when their speech is more fluent, they may start to believe their worth is tied to how they speak. Shift the focus to their ideas and contributions. Let them know that what they have to say is important, even if it takes a little bit longer to say it.
Try this: “That was a really interesting question.” “I love hearing your voice.” “You always notice such great details.”
4. Reduce the Question Load
Too many questions in a row—especially rapid-fire ones—can increase pressure to speak quickly and perfectly. Instead, try using comments to invite conversation gently. This shift gives your child more space to choose when and how they respond, making conversations feel safer and more natural.
Instead of: “What did you do at school today? Who did you sit with? Was it fun?”
Try this: “I’d love to hear about your day at school when you're ready.”
5. Make Room for Emotions
Stuttering can bring up some difficult feelings—frustration, sadness, embarrassment, or anger. When they surface, your role isn’t to fix them by any means necessary. It’s to stay present and help your child feel seen. The more your child feels emotionally supported, the more likely they are to take communication risks and speak up.
Try this: “I get why that was hard. I’m here for you.” “It’s okay to feel upset about that. You’re not alone.” “You’re doing a brave thing by sharing that.”
Your Role Matters More Than You Know
You do not need to be a speech therapist to make a lasting impact. Just by creating an environment that prioritizes connection over correction, you are giving your child the freedom to speak without fear.