Why Effective Communication Is Important in Developing Positive Relationships with Children, Young People and Adults.
Effective communication is very important in building a positive relationship with anyone, whether they are a child, young person or adult. The way in which we communicate with these different groups can be varied, but the basic fundamental principles remain the same.
Relationship problems can develop when individuals have a lack of communication, or do not have the skills to communicate effectively. These skills include clear expression, good listening skills, and being able to adapt to different situations and scenarios. We communicate in different ways:
- The way we speak – tone of voice, clarity etc
- Gestures
- Body Language
- Facial Expressions
To develop a positive relationship using effective communication it is important to establish trust. The person we are communicating with needs to feel at ease and to be given the opportunity to communicate back with comfort and confidence. It is important to listen and to use positive body language (may be shown by nodding etc), to use the appropriate facial expressions and maintain eye contact where appropriate (respecting possible cultural differences).
Adults need to show positive relationships with each other in front of children and young people so that the child can copy this behaviour and it helps to demonstrate what is expected and acceptable in relationship building.
If good communication exists between everyone involved (the child, the staff, and parents/carers) it may prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary worry. For example if a child is having problems at home which is not being communicated to staff then it may affect that child’s behaviour or attitude to school. By being open to all involved, you can prevent this and be immediately aware of any issues and therefore assist that child in coping. If communication is effective parents/carers are more likely to contribute to and offer support to the school.
It is so important that good relationships are developed with pupils,
Relationship problems can develop when individuals have a lack of communication, or do not have the skills to communicate effectively. These skills include clear expression, good listening skills, and being able to adapt to different situations and scenarios. We communicate in different ways:
- The way we speak – tone of voice, clarity etc
- Gestures
- Body Language
- Facial Expressions
To develop a positive relationship using effective communication it is important to establish trust. The person we are communicating with needs to feel at ease and to be given the opportunity to communicate back with comfort and confidence. It is important to listen and to use positive body language (may be shown by nodding etc), to use the appropriate facial expressions and maintain eye contact where appropriate (respecting possible cultural differences).
Adults need to show positive relationships with each other in front of children and young people so that the child can copy this behaviour and it helps to demonstrate what is expected and acceptable in relationship building.
If good communication exists between everyone involved (the child, the staff, and parents/carers) it may prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary worry. For example if a child is having problems at home which is not being communicated to staff then it may affect that child’s behaviour or attitude to school. By being open to all involved, you can prevent this and be immediately aware of any issues and therefore assist that child in coping. If communication is effective parents/carers are more likely to contribute to and offer support to the school.
It is so important that good relationships are developed with pupils,