STOP THINK DO is a social skills programme for children who have emotional–social–behavioural difficulties that affect their ability to make friends. It is designed as a classroom curriculum for children to prevent such difficulties arising.

Originally designed for Australian schools, it is now internationally recognized as an invaluable social skills programme and is being used by many schools and CPD groups around the world.

STOP THINK DO develops a positive social culture in classrooms, particularly because teachers are modeling the same skills they teach students. The academic progress of children is also facilitated by a cooperative classroom.

STOP THINK DO develops emotional and social intelligence in children as they learn how to understand and control their feelings at STOP, how to think about their options and likely consequences at THINK, how to behave appropriately at DO, and how to be motivated to use these skills in all social situations in their lives.

Lindy Petersen is a clinical psychologist with thirty years’ experience working with children, adolescents, parents and teachers in clinical and school settings. She is based in Adelaide, South Australia.