C OMMUNICATION WITH DIFFERENT AGE GROUP -

P RESCHOOL OR SCHOOL AGE CHILD Relatively short attention span Simple words and direct statements are more effective than abstracts. Speak softly and gently, with confidence Use of toys will promote relaxation Encourage expression of feelings Playful attitude is helpful with young child in the expression of emotions

P READOLESCENT AND A DOLESCENT They appreciate an adult like approach Focus on the child rather than parents Collect assessment date from them first, than parents Observe nonverbal behavior that increases anxiety, embarrassment Give direct information in health teaching

P ARENTS Acknowledge their ability to carry out necessary care measures Determine how the parent feels about the child’s health problems Convey that it is normal to feel angry at the child Speak in a simple way to the mother an in a professional, adult manner to the father.

C OMMUNICATING WITH THE CLIENT WITH COMMUNICATION DIFFICULTIES Gather data from clients with sensory impairments Develop rapport and trusting relationship Introduce yourself and the purpose Use appropriate nonverbal behavior to convey ideas

C OMMUNICATION WITH HEARING IMPAIRED Be sure the person’s hearing aid is in place, turned on, and in working order Always speak in a good light, face the person and light as you speak Do not have objects in or covering your mouth Never take advantage of the disability by carrying on a private conversation in his/ her presence in low tones that cannot be heard. Speak distinctly but naturally, shouting does not clarify speech sounds and mouthing or exaggerating your words, or speaking too slowly, makes you harder to understand.

Avoid excessive environmental noise Do not start to speak to a hard of hearing person abruptly Attract attention first by facing him/her and looking straight into the person’s eyes If the person has hearing impairement of one ear, stand at the opposite side and speak Remember that an affectionate or amused tone of voice may be lost on a hard of hearing person If a person has difficulty hearing, occasionally jot down the key words on a paper

If you do not understand the person, ask him to repeat rather than ignoring him

C OMMUNICATION WITH VISUALLY IMPAIRED Use normal tone of voice Accept the normal things which a blind person might do When you offer assistance do directly. Ask “may I be of help”. Speak in a normal friendly tone Advise the person when you are leaving the room there is no need to avoid the use of the word “see” when talking to a blind person Never leave the person with out a way to secure help A half open door, low stools or loose cords or rugs arer dangerous to visually impaired

Be sure to tell who else is present in the environment Encourage use of a magnifying glass if it is helpful Read mail to the person and assist him Describe the environment, people and events surrounding him to enrich his experience and understanding