Stammering (also called stuttering) is when the natural flow of speech is interrupted — a child may repeat sounds or words, stretch sounds out, or get “stuck” and struggle to get a word out. It often appears between ages two and five as language develops rapidly.
Some early dysfluency is a normal part of learning to talk. But when stammering persists, increases, or starts to upset your child, speech therapy can help build smoother, more confident speech.
Signs of stammering to watch for
- Repeating sounds or syllables (“b-b-ball”)
- Stretching sounds out (“ssssun”)
- Blocks — getting stuck with no sound coming out
- Visible tension, blinking or facial movements when speaking
- Avoiding words, sounds or speaking altogether
- Frustration or embarrassment about talking
- A family history of stammering
How we help children who stammer
- Assessment to understand your child’s specific pattern
- Techniques that encourage smooth, relaxed, confident speech
- Building communication confidence and reducing fear of talking
- Coaching parents on how to respond supportively at home
- Early support, which is especially effective for young children
Stammering is never caused by bad parenting, and your child is not doing it on purpose. Calm, patient support — and early therapy — make a real difference.
Consider a four-year-old who has started repeating the first sounds of words — b-b-ball — and sometimes tenses up when he gets stuck. His parents worry they have caused it (they have not). With gentle, pressure-free therapy that coaches them on how to respond at home, his speech becomes smoother and his confidence grows over the following months. Early stammering often settles well with the right support.
An illustrative, general example — not a real child. Every child is unique; the only way to know what yours needs is a proper assessment.What the research says
Our approach is grounded in published evidence, not opinion. A few findings from reputable, independent sources:
A randomised controlled trial found that preschool children who received the parent-delivered Lidcombe Program were more than seven times more likely to reach minimal levels of stuttering than untreated children — strong support for early intervention.
— Jones et al., BMJ (2005). View source
Other areas we support
Stammering: questions parents ask
Will my child grow out of stammering?
Some young children do, but it’s hard to predict. Early therapy improves outcomes, so if stammering persists for several months, increases, or distresses your child, an assessment is wise.
How should I react when my child stammers?
Stay calm, give your child time, keep eye contact, and don’t finish their sentences or tell them to “slow down”. We coach parents on supportive responses that genuinely help.
Worried about your child? Let’s talk.
A short, friendly conversation is the best first step. Call, text or WhatsApp us — we’ll listen and guide you, with no pressure.
MPS Road, Block A Model Town, Multan (near Bloomfield Hall School, Street No. 2) · Mon–Sat, 10 AM – 7 PM