COMMUNICATION

Good communication Why is it important? Children receive better care when practitioners can cooperate and work together well Misunderstandings are reduced Everyone feels respected and valued It helps to create a calm and happy environment for all It models good communication skills for the children you work with

Verbal communication This is what you say and how you use your voice to say it, including: using appropriate vocabulary speaking neither too loudly nor too softly using a calm and clear tone adapting any of these to suit the person you are talking to, e.g. a child or an adult.

Non-verbal communication How you use your body language, facial expressions, gestures and movements to communicate. Examples include: making eye contact using your hands to gesture as you talk raising your eyebrows in response smiling and nodding folding your arms or crossing your legs.

Listening Communication is a two-way process, as much about listening and understanding others as getting your own messages across. Good listening involves: giving the person your full attention showing that you are interested in what they have to say occasionally summarising what they have said to be sure you have understood.

Differing communication needs English as a second language – May need a translator Visual impairment – May need written materials provided in large font Hearing impairment – May need sign language, or quiet place to talk Physical disability – May need more time to speak Lack of reading ability – May need written communication in audio form

Tips for good communication Speak clearly, but not too loudly Make direct eye contact Be aware of what your body language is saying Listen attentively Respond calmly Remain professional Adapt how you communicate for those with different communication needs