Teachers and Parents:

Students With Speech Impairments

Overview
Students with speech impairments may have impediments ranging from problems with articulation or voice strength to being unable to speak. These impairments can include stuttering, chronic hoarseness, or difficulty in expressing an appropriate word or phrase. Typically, such students refrain as much as possible from class participation.

Teaching Strategies

When speaking with a student with a speech impairment, use normal communication patterns and refrain from completing words or phrases for the student.
DO NOT finish the students sentences, be patient and let them finish what they have to say.
Some students use electronic speaking machines or are adept at using body language to communicate.
Allow students with speech impairments or difficulty with oral expression the opportunity to submit written questions about material that they find challenging.
Students with speech impairments often do not feel comfortable participating in exercises devoted to interpersonal skills because the physical difficulties they experience can make the exercises uncomfortable for them. Even so, these students can benefit from watching others and participating at a level they select as comfortable.
Students with speech impairments benefit from an opportunity to make a contribution to the class in ways other than in-class discussion. For example, students might prepare a bulletin board display or a report on a topic that could be distributed to all students.

Download a free coloring book about a boy who stutters

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