If your child has begun to repeat sounds, stretch out syllables, or seem stuck on words, you’re probably wondering whether it’s just a phase or something that needs attention. As a parent in Dubai, knowing where to turn for stuttering (or stammering) support can be confusing, especially when so much of the information online feels vague or outdated.
The good news? Stuttering is highly treatable and with the right approach, many children go on to speak with greater ease and confidence. This guide shares what stuttering is, when to seek help, and the most up-to-date fluency therapy options available right here in Dubai.
What is stuttering, really?
Stuttering—also called stammering—is a speech disorder where the flow of speech is interrupted. Children who stutter might:
- Repeat sounds or syllables (“ba-ba-ba-banana”)
- Stretch out sounds (“ssssssoup”)
- Block or pause mid-word with no sound coming out
Some children may also blink, clench their fists, or avoid certain words especially if they’re aware of the difficulty and feeling frustrated.
It’s important to know that stuttering is not caused by nervousness, parenting style, or bilingualism. It’s a complex neurodevelopmental condition that often runs in families, and it tends to show up between ages 2 and 6—right when speech is taking off.
Should I be worried, or wait and see?
In young children, it’s completely normal to go through short phases of disfluency—especially during language bursts. But if the stuttering lasts more than a few months, gets more intense, or starts affecting your child’s confidence, it’s a good idea to consult a speech therapist.
At Esperanza, we always begin with a gentle assessment, looking not just at the stuttering itself, but also how your child feels about it. Some children aren’t bothered at all, while others feel anxious or avoid talking altogether. Our goal is to treat both the speech and the emotional impact.
What are the latest stuttering therapy methods in Dubai?
Therapy for stuttering has evolved significantly over the years. Gone are the days of just “slowing down” or correcting every sentence. Today’s fluency therapy is evidence-based, holistic, and adapted to the child’s age and needs.
Here are some of the most current approaches we use at Esperanza:
1. Lidcombe Program (for ages 2–6)
This parent-led, play-based programme has been proven to reduce stuttering in preschool children. Parents are trained to give gentle feedback during conversations at home, helping their child build fluency in a natural, supportive way.
We guide you step-by-step and check in regularly to adjust the plan as your child progresses.
2. Camperdown and Fluency Shaping Techniques (for older children)
These approaches help school-aged children and teens develop better control over their speech through structured strategies like breath control, gentle starts, and syllable timing.
We always combine these tools with confidence-building work, helping children speak in real-world situations like class presentations or conversations with peers.
3. Stuttering Desensitisation and Cognitive Strategies
Many older children who stutter also feel embarrassed, anxious, or even ashamed of their speech. Therapy now includes working on those feelings—not just the speech itself.
We help children understand their stuttering, reduce avoidance behaviours, and feel more comfortable being themselves.
4. Parent Involvement and Family Support
The best progress happens when families are part of the process. At Esperanza, we involve parents in therapy from the start. We show you what to do at home, how to support your child’s confidence, and how to create a “fluency-friendly” environment that reduces pressure to speak perfectly.
What makes stuttering therapy at Esperanza different?
Dubai is home to many therapy centres—but few are deeply specialised in fluency work. At Esperanza Speech and Occupational Therapy Centre, our therapists bring:
- Over 8 years of experience in treating stuttering in children
- Certification and training in programs like Lidcombe and Camperdown
- A multilingual, culturally sensitive approach for Dubai’s diverse families
- A focus on parent partnership, with real strategies you can use daily
- Therapy rooms that are warm, inviting, and free from judgment or pressure
We also know that no two children stutter the same way. So every plan is customised—not copy-pasted.
What’s the first step?
If you’re unsure whether your child needs therapy or just want a professional opinion, we welcome you to try our free consultation: First Steps.
In this relaxed session, one of our senior therapists will:
- Meet your child in a play-based setting
- Observe their speech and fluency patterns
- Talk with you about your concerns
- Explain what therapy would look like, if needed
There’s no pressure just guidance. And you’ll walk away knowing whether support is needed and how to move forward.
To book your First Steps session, call or WhatsApp us at 00971555241094.
Final thoughts for parents
Stuttering doesn’t define your child and with the right support, it doesn’t have to limit them either. What matters most is early awareness, informed choices, and having a therapist who sees your child as more than just their speech.
At Esperanza, we believe every child deserves to be heard fluently, confidently, and without fear.
