
About cluttering
What is cluttering?
Cluttering is the term used to describe speech which has the following features:
- sounds as though they speak very fast or in an irregular way (sounds too fast, sounds ‘jerky’)
- repeats a lot of words or phrases so that they are hard to follow
- drops syllables off words, especially longer words (i.e. “computer” becomes “puter”)
- pauses in unusual places
- has an unusual rhythm and stress in their speech
- blurs words together (i.e. “incredible” becomes “incrible”)
Information for parents
A child or young person who clutters may also have:
- disorganised expressive language
- other speech sound or language errors
- possible limited awareness of their speech difficulty (they may be aware that people often tell them to slow down or not mumble, but they may not understand why people say this)
- messy handwriting
- learning difficulties not related to intelligence
- difficulties with attention
- auditory perceptual difficulties
People are often referred to a speech and language therapist because they are hard to understand, talk too quickly or stammer.
Can people stammer AND clutter?
Yes, this is not uncommon.
Why do people clutter?
Cluttering is not yet fully understood. The underlying cause may be linked to neurological factors which affect the individual’s ability to regulate their speech. Cluttering may also run in families suggesting a genetic predisposition.
What should I do if my child clutters?
Understand that slowing down and speaking more clearly is extremely difficult for them. They are not being lazy.
Try to give your child clear feedback, but with warmth e.g. rather than reminding them to slow down, speak clearly or stop mumbling, try saying “Could you repeat the last part again, I didn’t understand” so that they know that they haven’t got their message across to you. Try being open about the difficulty you have understanding them if that feels appropriate.
Show that you are interested in what they are saying and that you value their ideas. Take time when you can to give them your full attention.
Talk with your local speech and language therapist
Read about the MPC assessment clinic, call our helpline on 020 3316 8100, or make a referral using the form below.
Find out more about cluttering
Stamma: https://stamma.org/about-stammering/variations-complications
SFA: https://stutteringhelp.org/cluttering
Too Fast for Words: Cluttering, What Is It? Learn More About This Speech Disorder
Internal Cluttering Online Conference 2010: http://www.mnsu.edu/comdis/ica1/icacon1.html
International Cluttering Association (ICA): ICA website (google.com)
Make a referral

Sometimes you just need someone to talk to


Sometimes you just need someone to talk to
Our Helpline, 020 3316 8100, is open during office hours (9am-5pm) and voicemail messages can be left when the office is closed.
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