Parents and other caregivers play an important role in the development of a child's communication skills. Positive communication helps in the development of a child's self-confidence and strengthens the relationship between the child and the caregiver. Conversely, poor communication tactics can make the child feel worthless, intimidated or angry.
Activities to Increase Communication
Young children develop their vocabulary by listening to and conversing with the people around them. To encourage communication, you can put in place some routines and practices that enable you to converse freely with your child. Reading books together is an excellent way to improve language development. You can talk about stories, pictures and ask questions to each other. Outings in the neighborhood and trips to the park or the zoo also offer opportunities to talk about various interesting objects. Never ignore your child when he is talking. If you are busy, offer to continue the conversation later. When you talk to your children, sit at their level and maintain eye contact. Talk in a soft voice, use words they can understand and listen when they speak.
Simple Requests
Multiple sentences or requests can easily confuse a young child. To make communication easier and to avoid repetition, first call out the child's name and make sure you have her attention. Communicate in short, precise sentences and ask the child to do one thing at a time. If you have an important request to make, communicate in a firm tone and provide a reason for the request. A child who is playing is more likely to obey you and stop playing if you tell her that the bus will arrive soon.
Role Models for Good Behavior
Set the right example for young children by being courteous and polite yourself. When you are courteous to a young child, he is more likely to listen to you and feel better about complying with your instructions. If you use words and phrases such as "please", "thank you" and "you're welcome" when you talk to your child, he will learn to do the same when he talks to you and others. Repeated reminders to use courtesies are not advisable and the child is less likely to obey you.
Encouragement in Words and Gestures
Young children learn to improve their communication skills by talking about themselves. Offer plenty of encouragement and kind words to help your child. Never interrupt or criticize the child when she is sharing her adventures with you. Offer praise at regular intervals and invite the child to say more by using phrases such as "tell me more", "I see" and "say that again." This improves the child's self-esteem and opens the door to more communication.
Positive Communication
When you talk to your child, use kind words that communicate love, respect and understanding. Avoid judgmental words or labels that make the child feel bad. Avoid constant negative requests that stop a child from doing something. Instead, focus on positive ones that tell the child what he can do. Allow the child to occasionally make decisions and choose from different options. Positive communication encourages the child to behave better and improves the atmosphere at home.
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