Effective communication is important with children because it helps them to feel valued. It shows them that their interests and opinions are listened to. When we listen and communicate with children, this gives them more self-confidence and it also helps to increase their self-esteem, both of these being so important for their future. The child we are communicating with needs to feel at ease and be given the opportunity to communicate back with comfort and confidence.
Children need to have role models, they need to understand that these people eg.teachers , classroom assistants or school principles must be listened too, respected and obeyed. Communicating clearly with children (either giving orders or simply praising them) helps to establish this, and in return, hopefully you will built trust and respect. This is vital if a child needs to confide in us regarding aspects of their life which may be troubling them. Eg bullying, family life or maybe having negative feeling.
As children slowly learn how to respect you, it should help to develop how they communicate with others. It allows them to develop and reach their maximum potential as they learn how to exchange information.
Relationship problems can develop when there is a lack of communication, or don't have the skills to communicate effectively.
These skills include: good listening skills using the word “I” eg I would like you to tell me …....... using the child's name – this makes things more personal speaking in an even tone using short sentences giving short and clear instructions open body language
We can communicate in different ways:
-The way we speak – tone of voice, clarity etc
-Gestures – pointing, hand movements etc
-Body language – arms folded etc
-Facial expressions – angry, smiling etx
Effective communication is important for the smooth