Sarah's Stammer Story

8-year-old Sarah has written and illustrated this piece about what stammering is and the things that help with her stammer.

It was sent into us by Hira, an NHS speech & language therapist in Salford. Hira said, "Hi STAMMA. I have been working with Sarah — she's 8 years old and has written a lovely story about her stammer, which her parents and I felt was worth sharing". (A text version is underneath).

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Sarah's Stammer Story

A stammer is when you repeat the same word a few times or when you stretch out a word. Someone who stammers might make unexpected pauses. It can come in waves. 

I randomly have a stammer but it is okay.

"Hi, my name is Sarah and I have a stammer. My favourite colour is red and I love cherries!"

When I start to stammer, I have these tips that help me. What I found that is very helpful is to relax. I also take a deep breath before I say something. Another thing that helps me is to make a pause before I speak.

It is very important to show consideration to people who stammer. I would appreciate if people let me finish my sentence. Also, it would be kind not to interrupt me. It is very important not to laugh at me.

(Mum): "It is okay to stammer. I'm still listening."

I stammer and it is okay. I don't feel different from other people. It is just my way of talking. This will not stop me from achieving my goals. 

That is me!

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