How to React When
Someone Stutters

If you want to know how to react when someone stutters here is the best advice we can give you...

Do not say things like:

  • "Slow down"

  • "Take a breath"

  • or "Relax" because it is not that simple to stop


Explore Our Goal Achieving, Client Centered Products

all products


It can make them feel bad, ashamed, or embarrassed which actually makes stuttering worse.

Listen to “WHAT” the person says and not “HOW” they say it. 

Show you are listening by:

  • keeping good eye contact

  • nodding your head naturally

  • confirming what they said.

Wait for them to finish talking.

Do not finish sentences or say words for people who stutter.

You can make them feel more relaxed which can lessen stuttering by speaking a little slower/calmer, but make sure that it's not so slow that it sounds weird.

If you are talking on the phone, remember it is usually harder for someone who stutters so give them extra time and don’t hang up if they are trying to start talking.

The above follows advice from the Stuttering Foundation of America. 


SEE ALSO: The Best Free App for Speech Therapy



Activities and Product Discounts, Oh My!
Sign up for Terrific Therapy Emails

See Past Email Examples

Your information is 100% private & never shared.




> How to React When Someone Stutters