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Stammering vs Stuttering: What’s the Real Difference?

You’ve probably heard both terms - stammering and stuttering, used to describe a speech difficulty where someone repeats sounds, prolongs words, or gets “stuck” when speaking. But are they really the same thing? Or is there more to it? 

Stammering Vs Stuttering: Whats the real difference

Is there a Difference between Stammering and Stuttering? 

In short, there is no real clinical difference, but different terms used in different parts of the world. 

  • Stammering is commonly used in the UK and Singapore. 

  • Stuttering is the term more widely used in the US, Canada, and Australia. 


So, if you hear a speech-language therapist in Singapore say “stammer,” and one in the US say “stutter”, they’re actually talking about the same condition. 


What exactly is Stammering/Stuttering? 

At its core, both refer to a speech disorder involving disruptions in the flow of speech, such as: 

  • Repeating sounds, syllables, or words (e.g., “c-c-cat” or “I-I-I want”) 

  • Prolonging sounds (e.g., “ssssssnake”) 

  • Blocks or getting ‘stuck’ where no sound comes out 

  • Unusual tension or struggle when trying to speak 


These disruptions are often more noticeable when the person feels anxious, rushed, or pressured to speak which is why many children who stammer may speak more fluently when they’re singing, playing, or talking to a pet. 


“When I sing, I don’t stammer at all. It’s like my speech remembers how to be free.”  - A parent of a 7-year-old child we support 


The Spectrum of Stammering 

Even though they’re technically the same condition, there’s a wide spectrum of experiences: 

  • Some children have more repetitions, while others experience more blocks or long pauses. 

  • Some may show signs early, like age 2 or 3, while others develop it later, often triggered by stress or major transitions (like starting primary school). 

  • It can come and go, especially in the early years. 


This is why no two children who stammer sound exactly the same. 


Also, stammering may occur with other communication needs such as speech sound disorders, anxiety, or even developmental delays making support even more important and individualised. 

 

So, what should parents do? 

Here’s what we recommend: 

  • Don’t panic. Stammering isn’t always permanent; many children outgrow it with the right support. 

  • Avoid telling your child to “slow down” or “start again”, it often adds more pressure. 

  • Give them time to finish, and keep your own speech slow, calm and unhurried. 


    Seek professional input if the stammer: 

    • Has lasted more than 6 months 

    • Is getting worse 

    • Is causing emotional distress or avoidance 

 

The most important part of support?

Empathy and patience.

Whether you call it stammering or stuttering, behind it is a child with ideas, thoughts, and a voice that deserves to be heard at their pace, in their way. 

 

Need Guidance? 

At Total Communication, we work closely with families to understand how each child experiences stammering and how best to support them. Our speech therapists use proven approaches to help reduce tension, boost confidence, and promote smoother speech in everyday settings. 


📍Based in Singapore, we’re just a message away if you’d like to chat about your child’s needs, just honest support. 


Call/WhatsApp: +65 9115 8895


👉 Reach out today and let’s talk about how we can help. 
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