Students Who Stutter

CLASSROOM SITUATIONS

Classroom tasks are among the most challenging for children

who stutter. Here are some ideas from other teachers that can

help you help the children in your classroom.

• During classroom discussions, allow extra time for

children to respond, and encourage everyone to

contribute their ideas.

• Recall that reading out loud in class may increase a

child’s anxiety as she waits for her turn. After talking

with the child about what would work best for them,

consider selecting readers at random, or using another

strategy, rather than going “down the row.”

• In group work, monitor the children’s collaboration

to make sure the child who stutters has the chance

to participate in class activities.

• Remember that time pressure makes it harder for

children to speak. When asking questions, try not

to reward only the fastest responses.

• Help students learn to take turns and allow time for

thinking and responding.

• Oral reports may be particularly difficult for some

children. Work with the child to develop a plan that

meets their individual needs. Flexibility may be needed,

but it is important to provide opportunities for the

child to be a successful contributor in class.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS

1. Finishing sentences and filling in words is not

generally helpful. Even though you may be trying

to help, this can put even more pressure on the

child/student who stutters.

2. Be a good listener. Maintain normal eye contact and

do not seem impatient, embarrassed, or alarmed.

Wait patiently until the child is finished speaking.

3. Don’t give advice such as ‘slow down’ ‘take

a breath’ or ‘relax’. These are simplistic responses

to a complex problem.

4. Let the child know, by your manner and actions, 

that you are listening.