Communication is a crucial aspect of human interaction and is especially important when it comes to children and young people. It is through effective communication that we are able to form and maintain relationships, understand and express our own needs and emotions, and navigate the complex social world around us.
There are several key considerations when it comes to communicating with children and young people. One of the most important is understanding that children and young people have their own unique perspectives, experiences, and needs. It is important to approach communication with an open mind and to listen actively to what they have to say. This means paying attention to what is being said, asking questions, and trying to understand their perspective.
Another important aspect of communicating with children and young people is being clear and concise. Children and young people may not have the same level of language skills or life experience as adults, so it is important to use language that is appropriate for their age and developmental level. This may involve using simpler language, providing examples or explanations, or using visual aids to help convey a message.
It is also important to be patient and to allow children and young people the time and space they need to process information and respond. Children and young people may need more time to think about what they want to say or to ask questions. It is important to give them the opportunity to do so and to allow for open-ended conversations rather than rushing to provide answers or solutions.
In addition to these general considerations, there are also specific strategies that can be used to effectively communicate with children and young people. One such strategy is the use of open-ended questions, which allow children and young people to express their own thoughts and feelings rather than simply providing a yes or no answer. Another strategy is the use of active listening, which involves paying close attention to what is being said and showing understanding and empathy through nonverbal cues such as nodding and maintaining eye contact.
Effective communication with children and young people is not always easy and may require patience and practice. However, the rewards of building strong, positive relationships through effective communication are well worth the effort. By taking the time to listen and understand the unique perspectives and needs of children and young people, we can create a positive and supportive environment that fosters healthy communication and relationships.
Communicating with Children and Young People: Making a Difference
This leaves room for your child to express their emotions without judgment. The Care Inquiry 2013 These relationships encompass birth parents, the wider birth family, carers and social workers Cossar et al, 2011. This study was carried out from 2013-2016 and is referred to in this review as the Talking and Listening to Children or TLC project. Therefore, developing an effective therapeutic relationship with good communication skills, is essential for nurses when caring for CYP. Many said they felt completely alone. Young people with communication needs also face additional barriers that can include a lack of aspiration and understanding that they can participate; assumptions about their capacity; professional knowledge, skills and confidence; and access to communication systems. In order to understand how children under five communicate practitioners need to have a good knowledge of child development and attachment Norburn, 2013.
How to communicate effectively with your young child
Only make a promise to your child that you are sure you can keep. Conservation is developed Concrete operational 7—11 years old Concepts attached to concrete situations. For young children, activities such as games, writing and drawing help to make the process more child-friendly Thomas, 2009. Older children can be reluctant to share thoughts and feelings because of they fear these private things will be written down in their file and shared with strangers Luckock et al, 2006. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Key skills, such as how to form relationships, understand non-verbal communication, break bad news and communicate within family groupings, are explored within the context of professional rotes and tasks such as assessment, involving young, people in decision-making and planning, and work with children in care. Social workers need to try to resolve any differences of opinion as unresolved differences can increase the likelihood of emergency admissions into care, which can lead to placement instability Oliver, 2010.
Communicating with Children and Young People: Making a DifferenceBuilding Relationships and Communicating with Young Children: A Practical Guide for Social Workers
When children and young people CYP need hospitalisation or nursing care in the community, these fundamental rights may be tested. Signed in but can't access content Oxford Academic is home to a wide variety of products. Written by an experienced practitioner and educator, this timely textbook equips student social workers and other practitioners wishing to update their learning with the knowledge and capabilities needed for effective practice. And, yet, child-centred practice in the adult-centred world of public services remains a constant challenge. This is both a cognitive and a physical skill that requires confidence to achieve. It's not just about the words you say: The tone of your voice, the look in your eyes and the hugs and kisses you give — all convey messages to your child.
09. Communicating effectively with children and young people
This requires time, patience, space and resources Luckock et al, 2006. Sign in through your institution Choose this option to get remote access when outside your institution. Personal account A personal account can be used to get email alerts, save searches, purchase content, and activate subscriptions. Having fun together As your children grow, parenting can seem like a more serious task. Nonverbal communication is both intentional and unintentional communication through body language. This can include play, observations, visual aids, video and working with parents and other professionals who know the young people well.
Communicating with children and young people — Northumbria University Research Portal
This includes decisions about their own support and care, about the services that they use and about strategic level decisions. Including children in decision making can improve the quality of the decisions and lead to more stable placements Thomas, 2009. The experiences that led to placement, including neglect or maltreatment, will have resulted in separation from their birth family which, even if unsafe, was the home they knew. Children do not always complain about their care directly to social workers or other practitioners. Communication with children and young people can take many forms including: direct talk, listening, writing, touch, facial expressions and body language, signing, and using specialist tools or techniques. Focusing on behaviour If you are upset with your child about something, make sure that your criticism and comments are directed at their behaviour and not at them as a person. Involving young people in decision-making has never been more important than now during a time of huge legislative reform that will directly impact on their lives.
