Communication and Professional Relationships with Children, Young People and Adults
The basic guidelines for effective communication are the same for adults as they are for children although how we approach communication may vary slightly. Communication is the most important component in any relationship. Effective communication creates positive relationships and allows children to participate and benefit. You should always think about how you communicate, demonstrate and respond to others and the messages you are giving.
The principles of relationship building with children and adults are that if everyone is comfortable in our company they are more likely to communicate effectively. You need to develop a positive relationship that shows respect and consideration. You should ensure that you acknowledge and respect the views of others at all times and take time to remember key points or vital personal information (names, personal details). You also need to make sure that you take time to listen and show that you are interested by responding appropriately. If you are giving information you need to be clear and you check that the information has been understood i.e. When talking to children ask them to repeat back to you what they need to do.
When communicating you need to adapt to different situations e.g. you would not talk to a colleague at school in the same way you would talk to a friend in a bar. It is also important to remember that talking is not the only way we communicate, our body language and the way we dress are all forms of communication. The non-spoken forms are as powerful, and can be open to misinterpretation. For example if you are aware that a colleague or child has a hearing impairment you would ensure you face them when talking so that they could lip read, you may also make eye contact so they know you are talking to them and you would slow down your speech. You could also use gestures where appropriate. I am aware that my job and social role may leave me open to parents approaching me to ask questions but more importantly,
The principles of relationship building with children and adults are that if everyone is comfortable in our company they are more likely to communicate effectively. You need to develop a positive relationship that shows respect and consideration. You should ensure that you acknowledge and respect the views of others at all times and take time to remember key points or vital personal information (names, personal details). You also need to make sure that you take time to listen and show that you are interested by responding appropriately. If you are giving information you need to be clear and you check that the information has been understood i.e. When talking to children ask them to repeat back to you what they need to do.
When communicating you need to adapt to different situations e.g. you would not talk to a colleague at school in the same way you would talk to a friend in a bar. It is also important to remember that talking is not the only way we communicate, our body language and the way we dress are all forms of communication. The non-spoken forms are as powerful, and can be open to misinterpretation. For example if you are aware that a colleague or child has a hearing impairment you would ensure you face them when talking so that they could lip read, you may also make eye contact so they know you are talking to them and you would slow down your speech. You could also use gestures where appropriate. I am aware that my job and social role may leave me open to parents approaching me to ask questions but more importantly,