Interviewing the Child Victim-Outline

Determining the Ability to Interview the Young Child

Unable to Interview:

• Usage of one to two words
• Unintelligible speech and language
• Short attention span
• Play not representational

Transitional Period for Child:

• Some vocabulary
• Sufficient capabilities
• Teach correct words for body parts
• Teach concepts (touching, hurt, tickle)

Interview Appropriate:

• Has good attention span
• Knowledge of appropriate concepts (Where do you sleep?)
• Intelligible speech and language
• Capable of some representational play

(Source: "Evaluating the Young Child," Sandra Hewitt, Ph.D.)

Preparation

• Review developmental information on children the same age as the child you plan to interview.
• Reframe your thinking from "interview" to communication with the child.
• Select and organize interview aids recommended for this age group.
• Use concrete props for these concrete thinkers.
• Be prepared to conduct more than one interview. With this age child, ten minutes of pertinent information may emerge within a 30 to 45 minute session. Long interviews are counterproductive and frustrating for a young child.