Creating A Supportive Classroom

Every student deserves to feel valued, heard, and supported in the classroom—including those who stutter. Stuttering is a natural variation in speech that affects about 1% of the global population, yet misconceptions and stigma around it persist. Teachers play a critical role in fostering a supportive learning environment for students who stutter.

In this guide, we’ll explore actionable strategies educators can implement to create a welcoming and empowering classroom where students who stutter can thrive.

Understanding Stuttering in the Classroom

What Is Stuttering?

Stuttering is a communication difference characterized by involuntary disruptions in speech, such as repetitions, prolongations, or blocks. While the exact cause of stuttering is complex and multifactorial, it is important to recognize that it is not a sign of cognitive impairment, nervousness, or lack of intelligence.

How Stuttering Affects Students

Students who stutter may experience:

• Anxiety about speaking in front of peers.

• Fear of being interrupted or mocked.

• Hesitation to participate in class discussions.

• Frustration when struggling to communicate.

By fostering a supportive environment, educators can help students who stutter feel confident and comfortable expressing themselves.

Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment

1. Promote a Culture of Acceptance and Respect

• Educate the class about stuttering as an example of how we are different.

• Encourage students to be patient and listen attentively to their peers.

• Model more supportive language by focusing on what students say rather than how they say it.

2. Establish Safe and Encouraging Speaking Opportunities

• Allow students who stutter to choose their level of participation in oral activities.

• Provide alternative ways for students to express their knowledge, such as written responses, group discussions, or video presentations.

• Avoid putting students on the spot without warning.

3. Normalize Stuttering and Reduce Speaking Pressure

• Refrain from finishing students' sentences or offering corrections.

• Allow students to take their time when speaking.

• Acknowledge stuttering openly and positively if a student brings it up.

Best Practices for Classroom Activities

It’s important to find out what your students who stutter are comfortable with. Some want to continue participating fully in all required activities, while others appreciate and benefit from accommodations. 

Reading Aloud

• Offer students the option to read aloud in smaller groups or one-on-one.

• Allow them to preview reading material before reading in front of the class.

• Provide alternatives, such as listening to an audiobook and discussing key points.

Class Presentations

• Offer flexibility in how students present (such as prerecorded videos, group presentations, or written reflections).

• Encourage the use of visual aids to shift focus from speech fluency.

• Reinforce that communication is about sharing ideas, not perfect fluency.

Group Discussions

• Encourage turn-taking to ensure that all students have a chance to speak.

• Foster a supportive atmosphere where everyone listens attentively.

• Normalize moments of stuttering by maintaining eye contact and responding naturally.

Collaborating with Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Families

Work with an SLP

• Partner with the school’s SLP to understand best practices for supporting students who stutter.

• Implement any recommendations from the SLP, such as modified speaking tasks or additional support strategies.

Communicate with Families

• Engage parents or guardians to understand the student’s comfort level with speaking in class.

• Encourage an open dialogue about accommodations that may help the student thrive.

• Share positive feedback about the student’s participation and progress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Supporting Students Who Stutter

Should I ask a student if they want to talk about their stutter with the class?

Only if the student expresses interest. Some students may feel comfortable discussing their stutter, while others may not. It’s important to respect their preference.

How can I help a student who seems hesitant to participate?

Offer choices in how they engage with class activities, such as written responses, smaller group discussions, or presenting in a way they feel comfortable.

What should I do if another student interrupts or mocks a student who stutters?

Address the situation immediately by reinforcing a culture of respect. Educate the class on the importance of listening and treating all students with kindness. Remind them that we are all different; this is one example. 

Should I correct a student’s stutter or tell them to slow down?

No. Correcting stuttering or instructing a student to "slow down" can increase pressure and frustration. Instead, listen patiently and supportively.

Building a Classroom Where Every Voice Matters

Creating a supportive classroom for students who stutter is about fostering confidence, self-expression, and respect. By implementing these strategies, educators can ensure that all students feel valued and heard regardless of how they communicate.

For additional resources and support, visit the National Stuttering Association (NSA) at WeStutter.org.