Have you thought about your body language when speaking to your child? So many of us consider what we say but perhaps not enough of us are considering how we are communicating through our non-verbal language?
We already know that good listening is vital and here’s just some of the ways that can support your child:
In an upcoming webinar on Thursday 12 December, we’re being joined by Dr Pooky Knightsmith, a renowned expert who is going to be talking to us about ‘Unlocking The Reasons Why’ looking at how we can communicate most effectively with our children to understand how they might feeling.
Pooky has both personal and professional insight into this topic and we are so excited to have her share her expertise with us, tickets are still available but selling fast. Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1014357589857
Why does body language matter?
Neurodivergent children, particularly autistic children, process communication differently which can mean that non-verbal cues such as our body language can have a much bigger impact upon them than we think. However, this is not just a consideration which needs to be made for neurodivergent children, all children benefit from us understanding how to communicate with them better.
If we want to make children feel comfortable to able to communicate with us effectively we have to consider everything we are doing.
Body language offers a universal and accessible way to express emotions, intentions and reassurance. Whether it’s a gentle smile, a patient pause or relaxed posture, your nonverbal signals can bridge the gap when words alone fall short.
We know that for children who often experience heightened sensitivity to the world around them, feeling safe and understood is paramount.
Making communication feel safe
Safety in communication isn’t just about the words you say, it’s about how your entire presence communicates that you are a reliable, non-threatening source of connection. Here are a few ways body language can help:
- Consistency: Children feel reassured when your tone, words and body language align. For example, if you’re saying, “Everything is okay,” but your posture is tense or your face looks worried, your child may pick up on the tension rather than the reassurance.
- Calmness: When children become overstimulated or anxious, your calm body language can act as an anchor. Slow movements, deep breaths and an open posture can provide a grounding presence.
- Space Awareness: Respecting your child’s boundaries is essential. Recognising when to give them physical space and when to offer a comforting presence ensures that your nonverbal communication feels supportive rather than overwhelming.
Unlocking the reasons why
We can help our children so much by understanding more about how we communicate to make them feel safer and more able to open up and share with us what’s happening with them.
In the ‘Unlocking the reasons why’ webinar on Thursday 12 December, Dr Pooky Knightsmith will be covering:
- Understanding Behavioural Drivers: Explore the underlying reasons behind challenging behaviours such as self-harm, eating difficulties, and attendance issues, and why identifying these drivers is crucial for providing effective, long-term support.
- Strategies for Deep Listening: Learn practical techniques for active listening that help you connect with children and young people, fostering an environment where they feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings.
- Building Trust and Connection: Discover methods to build trust with children, enabling you to break down barriers and get to the heart of the issues they are facing.
- Tailored Support Approaches: Gain insights into how to develop individualised support strategies based on a deep understanding of the child’s unique needs and circumstances.
- Boosting Confidence in Care: Enhance your confidence and competence in addressing complex behavioural issues by mastering the art of ‘getting to why’ and ensuring your interventions are both empathetic and effective.
It’s going to be such a useful webinar for so many of us so we hope you can join us then.
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1014357589857
