Nonverbal Communication: Head, shoulders, knees and toes
Some days it may feel like your preschooler never stops talking. And yet, speaking is only part of the way your child is communicating with you. As your child’s vocabulary becomes more complex, their knowledge of facial expressions, eye contact, and body language is growing as well.
How can you help?
Look at your child’s eyes when talking with them, and make sure that they do the same. Use phrases like “Please look at my eyes when I am talking.”
Distractions include things that might prevent your children from using appropriate eye contact. For example, if the television is on or your child is using other types of technology, turn them off (or ask your child to turn them off) before beginning your conversation.
This goes for you too. Put down your phone.
When your children are talking to you, give them your attention. They are eager to tell you about their day, their experiences, their feelings, and their thoughts. Don’t send the message that your phone is more important to you than they are.
Get down on your child’s level when speaking with them, especially when discussing important topics. It is important to challenge your child, but try to use age-appropriate language and words that they will be able to understand.
Use nonverbal behaviors to show support and pride in your child. When they put in effort or accomplish something, give them a hug or a thumbs up, wave your arms, jump up and down, and use happy facial expressions.
Use picture books to teach about nonverbal communication. Ask your child how the characters might be feeling and how they know. This can help your child learn about both verbal and nonverbal communication, including body language and facial expressions.
Did you know?
Speaking is only part of the way your child is communicating with you. As your child’s vocabulary becomes more complex, their knowledge of facial expressions, eye contact, and body language is growing as well. Encourage the development of nonverbal communication by modeling nonverbal communication and paying attention to the ways in which your child expresses themself.