Understanding Stammering or Stuttering

Parents of children who stammer (also called a stutter) may see their child suffering with embarrassment, frustration or anxiety but feel at a loss as to how best to help. The book explains stammering from a child's point of view, using firsthand accounts to demonstrate the common feelings of anguish experienced, and clarifying what the child is likely to want and need in terms of support at home, school and in social situations. The book is full of helpful advice for carers about how to build a child's confidence with techniques and tips to alleviate the stammer and improve self-esteem and school performance. This accessible resource will shed light on the perplexing nature of stammers, enabling those who care for children affected to find answers and get the best possible help.

Alison Whyte is a journalist and health writer. She has a son who first received therapy at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children when he was 9. He is now 19 and still has contact with the centre. She has been writing about health and social issues for 25 years, and has written about stammering for the Guardian and other magazines.

Elaine Kelman is a speech and language therapist. She has worked in the field of stammering for over 25 years and at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children since it opened in 1994. She is a specialist in the treatment of stammering and works with children of all ages as well as adults. She works extensively with parents, teaching them how to help their children effectively.