Navigating a New Stuttering Diagnosis: 5 Things to Know, 5 Things to Consider, & 5 Ways to Grow

Receiving a stuttering diagnosis for your child can bring up a range of emotions, and all of them are valid. You may feel surprised, concerned, or even unsure of what comes next—and that’s okay.

This post is here to offer you both understanding and practical guidance, so you and your child can navigate this journey with confidence and connection, every step of the way

*This blog post is inspired by Anitra Rowe Schulte's compassionate approach in her article for The Nora Project.

5 Things to Know

1 - It's okay to feel how you're feeling. Receiving a stuttering diagnosis may have been unexpected. Allow yourself to feel any and all emotions. These are normal reactions. We also want you to know that the world is full of diverse communicators, and stuttering is just one way people communicate.

2 - A diagnosis means access to the greater community and resources. You and your child become part of a larger stuttering community who share similar experiences. This community can provide valuable insights, emotional support, and practical advice. Additionally, you'll have access to a wider range of resources, such as speech-language pathologists (SLPs), support groups, and educational materials tailored to your specific needs. You can also access accommodations to help your child thrive in various settings.

3 - You're going to grow and learn together. A stuttering diagnosis can be a catalyst for personal growth and development. As you and your child navigate this journey together, you'll both have the opportunity to learn new skills, develop resilience, and strengthen your relationship. You may discover unexpected strengths in yourself and your child, and you'll likely develop a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives. Additionally, it's important to acknowledge that stuttering can sometimes lead to stuttering gain, where individuals develop valuable skills by being a person who stutters that can benefit them in various aspects of life.

4 - Stuttering is a part of who they are. Stuttering is a unique characteristic of their identity that shapes their communication style and their overall experience in the world. Embracing this part of their identity helps them feel confident and valued for who they truly are.

5 - While you can't change that they stutter, you can shape their experiences. You can help to create a supportive and understanding environment that helps your young person feel confident and valued. Celebrate their progress, make space for stuttering, and advocate for their needs in all aspects of life.

5 Things to Consider

1 - Talking with your child about stuttering. Open, honest conversations about stuttering can help demystify it and make your young person feel more comfortable. Provide space for them to share their feelings and experiences.

2 - Framing stuttering and diversity as a natural part of life. Teach your child that stuttering is just one of the many ways people are diverse. Celebrate differences and emphasize that diversity enriches our lives.

3 - Being mindful of how you respond to and talk about stuttering. Your reactions to your child's stuttering can shape how they feel about it. Respond with patience, acceptance, and understanding rather than trying to finish their sentences or rushing them. Show that you value what they’re saying over how they’re saying it. Use neutral, supportive language to help your child view stuttering as a natural part of their communication.

4 - Educating family and friends. Help your family and friends understand stuttering by sharing information and resources. Educating those around you can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for your child.

5 - Encouraging self-advocacy. As your child grows, encourage them to advocate for themselves in various settings. Help them understand that it’s okay to ask for what they need, whether it’s more time to speak or specific accommodations in school. Building self-advocacy skills will empower them to navigate the world with confidence.

5 Things to Grow

1 - Embrace stuttering and the way they talk. Recognize stuttering as their natural way of communicating and provide space for them to be themselves. This will help your child develop a strong, positive self-identity.

2 - Presume competence in your child. Always believe in their ability to participate in their environment and provide support as needed.

3 - Advocate for your child. Stand firmly in your young person's corner when facing barriers to their needs, whether in school, therapy, or daily life. Teach them to advocate for themselves in various settings.

4 - Amplify the voices of people who stutter. Seek out and share stories, books, articles, and media created by people who stutter. This helps your child see themselves reflected positively and builds a supportive community around them.

5 - Stay committed to learning and growing. This is just the beginning! Continue to educate yourself about stuttering, attend workshops, join support groups, and connect with other families. Knowledge is empowering and will help you support your young person to thrive.

Welcome to Support for Young Stutterers!

We are happy you're here! It is our mission is to empower caregivers like you (and speech-language pathologists and teachers) with thoughtful, respectful, and affirming resources so that you can create positive stuttering experiences for your young person who stutters.

We envision a world where every young person who stutters is surrounded by supportive adults – SLPs, parents, and teachers – who foster environments where they can thrive.

Ready to learn more? Explore our other blog posts in the caregiver section for additional resources and support. Follow us @SupportYoungStutters on Instagram to stay connected and continue your journey with Support for Young Stutterers!

Schulte, A. R. (2022, October 20). Navigating a New Diagnosis: 5 Things to Know, 5 Things to Avoid, & 5 Ways to Grow — The Nora Project. The Nora Project. https://thenoraproject.ngo/nora-notes-blog/navigating-a-new-diagnosis