The Younger Child

1. If you think that a child may be stammering, it is really important to discuss this with the parents/carers. If all agree that there is a cause for concern, then the child needs to be referred to a speech and language therapist.

2. If the child seems to be aware of the problem - perhaps the child is really struggling or giving up - then it is okay to mention it thoughtfully (discuss this with the parents first), for example: "That was a hard word to say - but well done, you tried your best".

3. Avoid saying the word for the child - it is very tempting to help a child when they are stammering. But it is better to give them the time to finish it for themselves.

4. Being patient and giving time is really helpful.

5. If the child is aware and wants to talk about the problem, you might come up with some helpful ideas together. For example, it is harder when everyone is talking at once, so knowing that they will get their turn will be good.

6. Help him to feel that there is no hurry to finish, by slowing down your own rate of talking (this will also make you aware of how hard it is to slow our talking down!)

7. Please don't tell the child to slow down or take a deep breath - the former is impossible and the latter can become part of the struggling to talk.

8. Praise the child for the things that they are doing well - try not to focus only on his talking.

9. Don't ask lots of questions, one after another. One will do - and give them time to reply.

10. Keep your language simple - this will help the child not to make their sentences too long and complicated, which can affect fluency.