Effective Communication With Children, Young People And Adults

1.1. Explain why effective communication is important in developing positive relationships with children, young people and adults

Effective communication is important when working with children and young people. Effective communication is good as it helps make relationships between the child and adult, this will further the children’s communication skills and they will then be able to make friends. Communication is also important as it’s how we express and share our feelings, needs and ideas, that’s why it’s important for adults to make good relationships with the children. Children should feel comfortable and relaxed when communicating as this makes them more likely to enjoy communication and be able to discuss any problems to the adults.

For example when working with nursery/reception aged children it is important to speak slowly and clearly so that the children can understand. Children that have also just started school for first time, will need time to settle in and may be shy at the beginning but give them time to build up their confidence and communication skills. When communicating with children adults should also adapt their vocabulary depending on their age and abilities. E.g. using simple words and sentences for the younger children. When working with children, they may need more to time to respond when communicating so things may need to be repeated several times in order for them to understand fully. For example in my setting we use visual schedules so that the children know what’s happening throughout the day. When working with older children adults can use more complex words and long sentences.

2.2b. Explain how to adapt communication with children and young people for:b the context of the communication

The communication will need to be adapted depending on the situation and the environment that the adults and children are in. For example in my setting when I have dealt with child’s behavior I have to use a firmer voice and my facial expressions change to a sad face so that understand the situation. Another example is praising a child’s achievement and I changed the tone of my voice and facial expression.

2.2c.

We should also be sensitive when talking and communicating to them and also listen to their opinions. Adults should also remain professional and talk in a formal language to each other and respect their opinions. For example at my setting we hold regular parents evening, where parents can talk about their child’s progress and ask questions, as the teacher we should listen give them our full attention and give them time to express their thoughts, wishes and issues they have. If we need to communicate with parents that don’t speak English as language, we tend to get a translator in so that they can understand fully. At my setting we also send home letters in different languages so that the parents understand what’s happening at the school. Another important factor to consider when communicating with adults is to understand that may come from a different cultural background and we should always consider the body language and physical contact used for example a hand shake which some cultures may accept but others may find