1. COMMUNICATION

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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