Q&A - Communicating with Children

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        How do you communicate with the children in your care? Are you calm and consistent or loud and unpredictable? The way you communicate with your young students can have a profound impact on how they react and interact in the classroom. Caregivers must be able to interact with children in a nurturing, respectful, supportive, and responsive ways; guiding children to learn positive communication techniques. Below are some questions and answers in regards to communicating with children effectively. 

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Question: How do you communicate with toddlers, especially ones that refuse to participate in the more necessary things?

Answer: It is most helpful to get to the root of the child’s reason for not participating in necessary things. Some children struggle with executive function, sensory processing challenges, or hearing and communication obstacles. These types of challenges mean that the child will often need specific instruction given in several different ways. It is important to know the child and what will work best for them.
Good communication with toddlers often includes patience, persistence, and understanding. Toddlers have limited language that is rapidly developing as well. It’s important to communicate with toddlers on an appropriate level and to be flexible as well.
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Question: How do you communicate with a child that completely ignores you and covers his ears when you talk to him?

Answer: There are several things that you can do to help. First, speak with any other teachers who have worked with him. Perhaps they have tips or ideas to help. Next, consider your approach. Is there something about the way that you’re communicating that could be bothering him? Last, don’t be afraid to work with his family to communicate your concerns and find some strategies for moving forward.
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Question: What if a child still does not listen to you?

Answer: Effective communication takes time and effort from both parties. Be patient, be persistent, and be positive.

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​For more information on Communicating Effectively with Children, 
register for our one hour course: 
https://www.cdastars.com/store/p238/Communicating_Effectively_with_Children.html

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