Good communication skills help us to solve problems successfully and maintain good interpersonal relationships. This is as true for young children as it is for adults.
People of all ages can have trouble expressing what they think and feel. Sometimes we just find it difficult to find the right words. Sometimes a situation seems intimidating and we feel shy to say what we really feel. Sometimes we are afraid that others will make fun of us or reject us. All of these difficulties are particularly common with young children.
Similarly, it is important to recognize that communication is a two way process. The ability to listen is vital in effective interpersonal communication and is linked to being sensitive and empathetic with others. Again, some young children find it difficult to listen carefully.
A few simple rules can help young children to communicate effectively:
• Think before you speak
• Don't shout
• Speak clearly
• Tell the other person how you feel
• Say all you want to say
• Listen carefully
Activity That You Can Have With Your Child At Home :
Name : No “Yes” and No “No”!
Aim : To improve your child's communication skills
How long will it take : 15 minutes
What do I need : Nothing
What do I do :
This is a simple game that can be played anywhere and at any time. It produces a lot of laughter and children love it. You ask your child questions and they have to answer without saying 'Yes' or 'No'. You can take it in turns and see who wins. At its most basic level, the game improves children's communication skills, requiring them to think more carefully about how to express them selves, and you can also use it to explore issues or feelings in a fun way.
(This article is extracted from http://www.partnershipforchildren.org.uk/resources/children-s-communication.html)
People of all ages can have trouble expressing what they think and feel. Sometimes we just find it difficult to find the right words. Sometimes a situation seems intimidating and we feel shy to say what we really feel. Sometimes we are afraid that others will make fun of us or reject us. All of these difficulties are particularly common with young children.
Similarly, it is important to recognize that communication is a two way process. The ability to listen is vital in effective interpersonal communication and is linked to being sensitive and empathetic with others. Again, some young children find it difficult to listen carefully.
A few simple rules can help young children to communicate effectively:
• Think before you speak
• Don't shout
• Speak clearly
• Tell the other person how you feel
• Say all you want to say
• Listen carefully
Activity That You Can Have With Your Child At Home :
Name : No “Yes” and No “No”!
Aim : To improve your child's communication skills
How long will it take : 15 minutes
What do I need : Nothing
What do I do :
This is a simple game that can be played anywhere and at any time. It produces a lot of laughter and children love it. You ask your child questions and they have to answer without saying 'Yes' or 'No'. You can take it in turns and see who wins. At its most basic level, the game improves children's communication skills, requiring them to think more carefully about how to express them selves, and you can also use it to explore issues or feelings in a fun way.
(This article is extracted from http://www.partnershipforchildren.org.uk/resources/children-s-communication.html)
