Ways to Help Someone Who Stutters
Allow the speaker time to get his/her thoughts expressed, regardless of repetitions and revisions. Look at the speaker and demonstrate your interest in what is being said, not in how it is being said. Keep the person interested in talking and try to convey a reassuring and unhurried manner when talking to the person stuttering. Convey understanding, acceptance and reassurance if the speaker expresses concern about Stuttering.
- Do NOT finish a sentence or word for the speaker.
- Do NOT give the impression that you are uncomfortable or disappointed by the stuttering.
- Do NOT point out to the speaker that he/she is stuttering.
- Do NOT tell someone to “stop stuttering” or “say it again, this time without stuttering.”
- Do NOT suggest the speaker substitute an “easier” word for the one being stuttered.
- Do NOT ask complex questions that require long answers.
