Building Healthy Relationships through Communications

Communication Exchange of information through the use of words or actions. 3 parts to good communication: Sender – person giving the message Receiver – person receiving the message Message – what ever is being sent by the sender Activity - Round

Verbal Communication The basis of communication is the interaction between people. Verbal communication is one way for people to communicate face-to-face. Some of the key components of verbal communication are sound, words, speaking, and language. Expressing feelings, thoughts, or experiences with words. What are the challenges? (geography, slang, word choice, acceptable language, etc.) Activity – Describe a picture

Emotions in Communication Strong feelings when speaking to someone. Expressing anger, love, sorrow, fear, etc. Activity - Using phrases

‘I’ Messages Prevents Verbal Attacks What are 'I' messages? 'YOU' Messages Belittles or blames. Makes the other person responsible for your feelings. 'YOU disappoint me or YOU make me angry' 'I' Messages Avoids blaming Lets you express your feelings directly and specifically Start with “ I feel....” Activity – Say a phrase then have someone fix it

Nonverbal Communication Getting Messages across without using words

Body Language Postures, gestures, and facial expressions to send messages. A form of nonverbal communication. Activity – Blindfolds, and popsicle drawing

Speaking Skills Avoid nonstop talking Think before you speak Be positive Use Tact Be aware of your listener Be direct, use “I” messages Be creative Make clear simple statements

Listening Skills Active Listening Pay Attention Provide feedback Let the person finish speaking Stay calm Keep an open mind

Refusal Skills with Communication S.T.O.P S: Say No T: Tell Why Not O: Offer Other Ideas P: Promptly Leave Refusal skills are a set of skills designed to help children avoid participating in high-risk behaviors. They help students to take a stand against crime, drug use, violence, and/or risky behaviors. It aids students to resist peer pressure, while maintaining self-respect.

Compromise The result of each person giving up something in order to reach a solution that satisfies everyone. Also known as “Give and Take”

Cooperation