10/23/2025
On October 22nd, we celebrated the annual International Stuttering Awareness Day. This day raises awareness of the challenges faced by those who stutter. Here at Northland Speech and Language, we hope to help educate, challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance of stuttering.
So, what is stuttering? Stuttering is a fluency disorder where an interruption in the flow of speech occurs. A person who stutters may repeat, prolong, and/or be unable to produce sounds or words. It can sound different for everyone and is not dependent on nervousness, effort or intelligence. There is no single “cure” for stuttering but with therapy and support, people can communicate more openly and effectively.
If your child or someone you may know stutters, we recommend the following:
1. Create a safe space for speaking and ensure family members react positively to stuttering.
2. Talk about stuttering- do not make it a taboo subject. Not talking about stuttering can be interpreted as something one should feel wrong about.
3. Have realistic expectations. Stuttering may last a lifetime. Speech therapy is a process and takes time. The goal of speech therapy is to make stuttering easier and increase effective communication for your child.
There are several stuttering support groups and organizations listed below. Getting involved in the stuttering community can have several positive outcomes for your child and family.
The National Stuttering Association (NSA)
www.westutter.org
American Institute for Stuttering (AIS)
www.stutteringtreatment.org
The National Association of Young People Who Stutter (FRIENDS)
www.friendswhostutter.com
The Stuttering Association for the Young (SAY)
www.say.org
The Stuttering Foundation of America
www.stutteringhelp.org
Follow KCFamilyNSA on Instagram.
