Your toddler likely has a lot to say these days. But sometimes new talkers can have trouble getting those words out.

Stuttering often affects kids ages 2 to 6 years, who are fast learning new speech and language skills. The condition, which makes it harder to speak smoothly, usually fades by the time a child starts grade school. But support&mdash;both from a speech therapist and at home&mdash;can help. 

Slip-ups versus stuttering

It's common for toddlers to repeat whole words or phrases, say "um" a lot or switch to a different word or thought mid-sentence. All of us stumble over our words from time to time&mdash;especially small children. Talking takes practice!

But stuttering sounds different. A child who stutters might:
<ul>
 <li>Repeat one-syllable words. "I have to go-go-go to the potty."</li>
 <li>Repeat part of a word or make prolonged sounds. "I w-w-want a snaaaack."</li>
 <li>Pause partway through a sentence. "Let's read [pause] a book."</li>
 <li>Nod their head or blink their eyes frequently while talking. Some kids use these behaviors to help them avoid stuttering. </li>
</ul>

How to help your toddler

The most important things to remember? Be patient, be positive and be proactive. Staying calm and upbeat&mdash;and looping in your child's primary care provider&mdash;are the best forms of support. Try to: 
<ul>
 <li>Talk together often. Keep it low-pressure. Ask about a drawing they're making, chat while taking a walk around the block or invite them to recount their day at bedtime. </li>
 <li>Take it slow. Give your child time and space to get those thoughts out. Rushing them or finishing their sentences can put them under pressure&mdash;and up the chances for stuttering. </li>
 <li>Stay positive. Your toddler is more likely to stutter when feeling embarrassed, nervous or frustrated. </li>
 <li>Make eye contact. It's a great way to let your child know that you're listening. </li>
 <li>Avoid shaming. Never make your child feel bad about stuttering. Remind them that it's OK&mdash;and if they have questions about their stuttering, answer them. </li>
 <li>Don't ignore it. Let your child's healthcare provider know right away if your child is showing signs of stuttering. They can help you connect with a speech therapist. Getting help early can make a big difference&mdash;and it can start as young as ages 2 or 3. </li>
</ul>

Sources: <a href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=aafp" target="_blank"> American Academy of Family Physicians</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=asha" target="_blank">American Speech-Language-Hearing Association</a>;&nbsp;<a href=" https://www.nih.gov/ ">National Institutes of Health</a>

Reviewed 8/14/2023

Stuttering: 6 ways parents can help