Helping Teens Who Stutter: A Guide for Parents and Families:

By Lori Melnitsky, MA CCC-SLP, stuttering specialist and person who stutters

Being a teenager is hard enough—but being a teenager who stutters? That can feel overwhelming. I know this firsthand because I stuttered severely growing up. I remember the anxiety of raising my hand in class, the fear of reading aloud, and the frustration of feeling like my words were stuck. I also remember avoiding certain words and even skipping social events because I didn’t want to struggle through conversations. I remember being laughed at for not being able to say my name.

If you have a teen who stutters, I want you to know that there is hope. I’ve been there, and I’ve come out on the other side. As a speech-language pathologist and someone who has lived through these challenges, I want to share what truly helps teens navigate school, friendships, and their future with confidence.

1. Create a Judgment-Free Space

Teens need to know that stuttering doesn’t define them. When I was growing up, I often felt like I had to “hide” my stutter. But the more I tried to push it away, the more it controlled me. The best thing parents, teachers, and friends can do is create a safe space where teens feel heard—without being interrupted, rushed, or corrected. Let them finish their thoughts and show that you’re listening to what they say, not how they say it.

2. Encourage Self-Advocacy

One of the biggest game-changers in my journey was learning to speak up for myself. It wasn’t easy, but I learned to tell teachers, friends, and even employers, “Hey, I stutter. I just need a little extra time.” Helping teens become their own advocates—whether asking for extra time in class or explaining their stutter to others—can build their confidence and reduce anxiety. Never giving up on finding the right therapist and program helped and I am thankful to my parents for keeping me talking.

3. Support the Right Therapy and Coaching

Not all speech therapy is the same, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right approach can make a difference. Some teens benefit from fluency techniques, while others need to work on reducing their fear of speaking. That’s why I created programs like Talk It Up Fluency Program and Empowered Voices Coaching Group—because I know from personal experience that real progress happens when teens feel supported and understood.

4. Help Them Navigate School and Social Situations

I used to dread being called on in class, and I know so many teens who feel the same way. I often ran out of the room and hid in the restroom. Practicing presentations at home, asking for accommodations, and finding ways to participate without pressure can help. Encouraging teens to engage in activities they enjoy—whether it’s sports, music, or clubs—can also shift the focus away from stuttering and onto what truly makes them happy.

5. Show Them That Stuttering Doesn’t Define Their Potential

When I was younger, I never imagined I’d be where I am today—leading workshops, speaking on podcasts, and helping others who stutter. If I could go back and tell my teenage self one thing, it would be this: Your stutter doesn’t limit you. You are capable of more than you know. Teens need to hear this. They need to see role models who stutter and know that success isn’t about speaking perfectly—it’s about being confident in who you are.

6. Connect Them With a Stuttering Community

One of the biggest turning points in my journey was realizing I wasn’t alone. Meeting others who stutter—whether in person or online—can be life-changing for a teen. It helps them see that stuttering is just one part of who they are, not something to be ashamed of.

Final Thoughts

I stuttered. I struggled. But I also found my voice. And so can your teen.

Helping teens who stutter is about more than just fluency—it’s about giving them the tools, support, and confidence to communicate in a way that feels right for them. If your teen is struggling, I’d love to help. Reach out to learn more about my programs and how we can support their journey together.

Does this feel like the personal touch you were looking for? If it does please contact Lori@allislandspeech.com

www.allislandspeech.com

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