Level 3 Diploma in specialist support for teaching and learning in schools (unit 301: communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults)
QUESTION 1; 1.1
Being able to communicate is vital to developing positive relationships with children, parents and staff. Communication not only gives out information, but it encourages everyone and teamwork, positive attitudes, and stimulates thinking as we discuss either verbally or through other methods our views etc. Communicating effectively especially with young children is critical to their understanding and development and also importantly their safety, trust and honesty are established through communicating on different levels to suit the individuals needs.
We communicate with others, not only verbally, but by how we act. Since we are constantly sending messages, by use of appearance, eye contact, use of space, body movement/ language, and our facial expressions.
To be effective communicator and strengthen positive relationships we need to think about what we are going to say and how we are going to say it. Communication however, is a two way thing; it involves listening as well as speaking. How we listen to others is important, being empathic builds good relationships with children and young people making them feel that you have seen their point of view. In doing this they will feel supported and understood and are much more likely to trust and be open with you. A lack of understanding can leave a pupil feeling worried or angry. Adults working in the school setting need to form a positive approach and use effective communication to help children understand the boundaries expected of them. If teacher’s expectations are met in the classroom then the pupil’s social, emotional and learning is always more positive and better.
With children going to eye level, body language being reassuring and understanding always positive even when child is behaving inappropriately explain why it is inappropriate and what the correct behaviour would be and to show you understand that they are developing and learning.
Developing relationships with parents and staff to support the children is always key to safeguarding the children and being able to help them progress and develop in areas they struggle with and also broadens our understanding of the children needs and requirements.
Key points of using effective communication are;
More likely to share information/ trust you with information negotiation in certain situations to adapt to supporting a child’s needs team work this is key in working in schools, liaising with staff, maintaining records, observations discussing with senior staff concerns etc. 1
children, parents