Communication Skills

Some of the Concepts You will Learn Today:

1. Communication Defined!2. When do you start teaching/modeling

communication skills?3. Goals of Communication4. What is “Active Listening?”5. How does body language affect our

conversations?6. Techniques to get “kids” to listen and

talk.7. “Rewording” what and how we talk

with our children to encourage “self-esteem”

What is CommUNIcation?

Is a process that allows people to exchange information by several methods.

When does communication begin?

Before birth

At birth

For the rest of your life

Ways to CommunicateSpeaking

Listening

Body Language

Sign Language

Touch

Eye Contact

Writing

SPEAKING

Show Respect

Gentle Reminders

“I” messages rather than “you” messages

Reflect on child’s feelings

Offer choices

Explain the rationale behind the rule

Redirect

Explain what you want to do in a logical sequence

Things to Avoid

Saying “NO”

Yelling

Placing guilt

Forcing apologies

“Time-Out”

Active Listening

Gag Yourself

Find interest in the other person

Use open ended questions

Don’t give advice unless asked

Listen to what people mean between the lines.

Assume the proper stance. Allow for personal space (24-30in)

Make Eye Contact