Bullying & Stuttering: A Caregiver’s Guide to Spotting Signs & Taking Action

For children who stutter, school is a place of connection and learning—but it can also be a source of stress. Teasing and bullying from peers about how they speak can deeply impact self-esteem, confidence, and willingness to communicate. It is a fear many caregivers share and one that deserves proactive solutions.

“Teasing/bullying has been a mommy fear of mine from the beginning. One time, our son came home and told us that he was teased on the bus after school. We have always told him that if there was any issue on the bus or at school, he should find a trusted adult. He tried to handle things himself, so along with his private SLP, we started self-advocacy. As a parent not with him 24/7, it hurts my heart to think about him in these positions. We have really tried to help him realize we can't control others, but we can control how we respond.” — Melinda Eairheart, mom of a 12-year-old who stutters

The good news is that you are not powerless. With the right tools and support, you can help your child feel safe, build resilience, and ensure that their voice is not silenced by fear. This guide walks you through what to watch for, what to say, and how to work with schools to enact meaningful change.

Recognizing the Signs of Teasing and Bullying

Children do not always tell their caretakers when something is wrong. Many kids who stutter may try to hide how often they are teased—or feel that nothing can be done. That is why it is important to watch for signs, both subtle and direct.

Red flags may include:

• Reluctance to go to school or participate in class

• Changes in mood, sleep, or appetite

• Avoidance of speaking situations, even at home

• Negative self-talk like “I hate my voice” or “No one listens to me”

• An increase in stuttering severity or signs of tension while speaking

While these behaviors may have many causes, they are definitely worth exploring gently with your child. Ask open-ended questions like, “How do you feel about talking in class?” or “Has anyone ever made you feel bad about how you talk?”

Coaching Confident Responses at Home

You can’t control what others do or say, but you can prepare your child to respond in ways that advocate for themselves while protecting their self-worth and confidence. Responses don’t have to be perfect. They just need to help your child feel in control and supported.

“As a person who stutters, my son Colton has watched me stutter throughout his life. My confidence with speaking, stuttering, and acceptance has helped him be confident and have acceptance as well. Our entire family is patient with Colton and me when we speak and it has created a welcoming, normal, accepting environment across all settings. Also, Colton created a stuttering presentation with the assistance of his SLP starting in kindergarten that he would share each year with his teacher and classmates. This opportunity to educate others about stuttering has created a supportive and accepting environment throughout his time in school. The presentation provided info about stuttering and ways to help someone who stutters.” — Holly Nover, person who stutters and mom of a 14-year-old who stutters

Here are some ideas to explore together:

• “Yeah, I stutter. I am still talking—please let me finish.”

• “I just talk differently. That’s okay.”

• “You don’t need to fix or help me. I’m just fine the way I talk.”

Role-playing these moments at home can be helpful. Practice different scenarios together. Encourage your child to use their voice, pause when they need to, and know they can always come to you.

Also remind them that it’s okay to walk away, ignore rude comments, or get help from an adult.

“In elementary grades, his SLP had him make a "This is Me" slideshow in August to send all of his teachers, explaining facts about himself, including information about his stutter and how teachers can support him. He has continued through seventh grade! Partner with NSA, use their online resources, find a Local Chapter (or online version), and embrace your child and their speech journey together! Finally, find someone who also stutters that your child can relate to. My son/family came together to watch Mitch Guerra on Survivor and I think it was great for him to see a person who stutters represented!” — Melinda Eairheart

Building a Safe and Supportive School Environment

Your child’s school should be a place where they feel safe, respected, and included. If bullying is happening—or even if you suspect it might—it is important to engage with teachers, counselors, and administrators proactively.

Here is how you can start:

1. Schedule a meeting.

Talk directly with your child’s teacher or school counselor. Share your observations and ask if they have noticed any behavioral changes.

“I've emailed teachers asking to keep an ear out and let me know. This last year, I guess a group of middle school boys said something about his stutter. Sadly, he just doesn't speak around them in that class. He stutters freely at home. He stutters around those he knows are okay with his stutter. He says when he's around those whom he doesn't feel comfortable, he either uses strategies or refrains from speaking.” — Melinda Eairheart

2. Educate about stuttering.

Many educators are not familiar with the emotional impact of stuttering. Provide resources (like those from the National Stuttering Association [NSA]) that explain what stuttering is and how to support students who stutter.

3. Request a classroom-wide approach.

Work with the school to ensure that kindness, empathy, and inclusion are modeled for all students. Anti-bullying messages should not single out your child, but promote respect for everyone.

4. Know your rights.

If teasing or bullying continues, or if your child’s speech is affecting their academic experience, you may be entitled to accommodations or support through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.

The NSA offers tools to help caregivers advocate within the education system and guide these conversations effectively.

Supporting Your Child Emotionally

Even with strong advocacy, teasing still hurts. Your child may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or want to avoid speaking altogether. This is where your consistent support makes the greatest difference.

Try the following:

• Reassure your child that stuttering is not their fault and that they are not alone

• Celebrate their bravery, not their fluency

• Talk openly about feelings and encourage emotional expression

• Normalize asking for help and practicing self-care

Let your child know that being teased says more about the other person than it does about them. Their voice is not broken and it does not need to be hidden.

Connecting With Other Families and PWS

One of the most powerful antidotes to bullying is connection. When children who stutter meet others like them, they often feel more confident and less alone. NSA Family Chapters, virtual events, and youth programs create safe spaces for children and caregivers to find community and share experiences. These connections help children reclaim their voice—not just in school, but everywhere.

“Attending NSA Conferences with Colton has given him the opportunity to meet and speak with other people who stutter. Support your child by asking what you can do to help them advocate and what they want you to do when they stutter.” — Holly Nover

Stuttering should never be a reason for a child to feel excluded, unsafe, or afraid to speak. As a parent, you are your child’s strongest advocate. By recognizing the signs of teasing, preparing them with confident language, and partnering with schools, you are helping build a world that hears and respects every voice.

The NSA is here to support you with resources, education, and a community that understands.

“Attending the NSA Conferences has greatly helped my understanding of the brain and speech science and overall support for people who stutter. Six years ago, the goal was correction and now the goal is supporting him to raise his confidence for all of life's next steps. COME TO THE NSA CONFERENCE! Our whole family was able to attend the last two years and we have all got so much out of the experience. Our son has loved getting to know his group of friends.” — Melinda Eairheart

Learn More and Get Involved

Explore more tools for caregivers at WeStutter.org/parents.

Connect with others through Family Chapters and virtual meetups at WeStutter.org/families

Find an NSA Chapter today at WeStutter.org/join-a-chapter.