Thanksgiving and Stuttering: How to Support Your Child This Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time for connection, gratitude, and coming together with loved ones. For some families of children who stutter, the excitement of the holiday can feel energizing and fun. For others, crowded rooms, unfamiliar relatives, or being asked to share what they’re thankful for might feel overwhelming.

As a parent, you might wonder:

• How will my child feel? Will they feel confident? Will they want to speak up? Or will the day feel like too much?

• How will I feel? What if I hear unhelpful comments? How can I help my child feel supported, no matter what happens?

Here’s the thing: there’s no way to predict exactly how Thanksgiving will go—and that’s okay. Instead of trying to plan for every possibility, focus on a mindset that helps you stay flexible, calm, and connected—no matter what the day brings.

1. Prepare for Thanksgiving Traditions—and to Embrace the Unknown

Thanksgiving often comes with traditions that can feel high-pressure, like going around the table to share what you’re thankful for or discussing school. Connecting with your child ahead of time about what to expect can help them (and you) feel more prepared and in control.

Here are some ways to preview traditions and embrace the unknown:

• Talk about traditions in advance.

  • “What do you think we’ll do tomorrow on Thanksgiving?”

  • “When we get to Aunt Jill’s house, you can play with your cousins. Then we’ll all sit down for the Thanksgiving meal. What foods are you excited about? What do you think we’ll talk about?”

• Brainstorm flexible options together.

  • “I bet Grammy will ask what everyone is thankful for. What’s something you might like to share?”

  • “Remember last year when there was a lot of talking at once? This year, I’m going to [practice taking deep breaths, drink some water, enjoy my turkey]. What will you do if you feel overwhelmed?”

  • “If you need a break, let’s pick a spot where we can step away. How does that sound?”

• Reassure them that it’s okay to adapt in the moment.

  • “We don’t know exactly what will happen, and that’s okay. If something unexpected comes up, we’ll figure it out together.”

    
    

By focusing on adaptability and framing the day as something you can navigate together, you help take the pressure off your child—and yourself—to have everything go “perfectly.” Even if the day feels unpredictable, your calm, steady support helps set the tone for your child to navigate the experience.

Mindset Tip: "I don’t need to have all the answers—I can meet the day as it unfolds."

2. Give Space for Emotions

Thanksgiving can bring a range of emotions—excitement during the parade, nervousness about greeting relatives, or frustration if someone interrupts.

Let your child know it’s okay to feel however they feel. If they’re nervous about saying “thank you” for the pumpkin pie or frustrated after being asked to repeat themselves, remind them that big feelings are normal.

When you create space for emotions, you’re showing your child it’s safe to express themselves.

By managing your own emotions, you’re modeling for your child how to approach challenges with patience and resilience.

Mindset Tip: "All feelings are expected and welcome at my table."

3. Celebrate What Your Child Brings to the Table

Thanksgiving is about connection—and your child brings so much to the table. Whether it’s their unique way of making everyone laugh, their thoughtfulness, or the stories they share, their presence is something to celebrate.

Stuttering doesn’t need to be changed or hidden for your child (and others) to enjoy Thanksgiving. It’s part of who they are, and it belongs at the table too. By embracing this mindset, you’re showing your child that they’re valued exactly as they are, stuttering and all.

Mindset Tip: "What my child brings to the table is enough."

4. Dealing with Unhelpful Family Members

Not everyone at the table may understand how to support your child, and unhelpful comments can sting—whether they’re well-meaning or not.

Here’s how to handle those moments:

• Set the tone ahead of time: Before the gathering, let family members know how to support your child. For example, “If [child's name] stutters, just give them time to finish. Stuttering is part of how they talk and what they have to say is important.” You don’t need to explain everything about stuttering in one go—just sharing one or two ways family can be supportive is enough.

• Redirect gently in the moment: If someone interrupts or comments, try, “We’re all practicing being patient when people are talking."

• Protect your child’s feelings: If a relative crosses a line, prioritize your child’s well-being. It’s okay to step in or step away if needed.

Mindset Tip: "I can advocate calmly and model support for my child."

5. Managing Your Own Feelings

Thanksgiving can stir up big emotions for parents, too. Seeing your child struggle or hearing unhelpful comments from relatives might bring up frustration, sadness, or even guilt.

Take a moment to check in with yourself:

• Give yourself grace: It’s okay to feel emotional—it means you care.

• Lean on your supports: Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a speech-language pathologist (SLP), share your feelings with someone who understands.

• Focus on what you can control: You can’t control everything that happens, but you can show up with love, patience, and support.

Mindset Tip: "I can’t control everything, but I can focus on what matters most."

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Thanksgiving isn’t just about honoring family rituals—it’s about honoring the people at the table.

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and one of the most meaningful ways to show it is by honoring the people we share it with. The expectation shouldn't be speaking a certain way—it’s about showing up as yourself.

When you make space for stuttering and for family members to show up as themselves, you’re making space for everyone at the table.

Whether this Thanksgiving brings ease or challenge for your child, your steady support and flexibility will help them feel safe and loved.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to this Thanksgiving? Share in the comments!