Avoid guessing the word or finishing sentences - it is very tempting, but you may get it wrong or it may just make the person feel cross!
Use normal eye contact - this doesn't mean fixed staring! We all glance around when we are talking to each other
Listen to what is being said, not how it is being said
It can be uncomfortable listening to a person whose speech is disrupted by a stammer, but try to show you are at ease and are ready to listen
Try to show that you are not in a hurry - a sense of urgency builds tension
If you are a fast speaker, this adds pressure and speeds up conversations - monitor your own rate of talking and "change gear"
When talking to a young child who stammers
If you think that a child may be stammering, it is really important to discuss this with the parents/carers
Don't tell the child to "slow down" or to " take a deep breath" - the former is too hard for a young child and the latter can become part of the problem
Having discussed it with the parents/carers, if the child is aware of the problem, it may be ok to mention it thoughtfully; for example: "That was a hard word to say - but well done, you tried your best"
You might try to talk more slowly which takes away the pressure of rapid conversations
Try to show that you are not in a huge hurry; you have time and will listen. If you don't, then say so... "I really want to hear what you have to say, but I have to make this phone call now - can we talk later?" Make sure you remember your promise!
Praise the child for the things that he is doing well - without focusing on their talking
Don't ask lots of questions, one after another. One question is enough - and give him time to reply
Often children who stammer do so more on long, difficult sentences. Be a good model and keep your sentences uncomplicated
Listen to what is being said, not how it is being said
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