Building Communication Skills
Success Requires the Ability to Use Strong Communication Skills…
Imagine that your child has been invited to an exclusive restaurant by his or her college professors and a small select group of students.
The purpose of this dinner invite is for the professors to get to know the students on a deeper level and to discuss new opportunities in academia for forward-thinking and innovative students.
When the server approaches the table, your child happens to be the first guest with whom the server interacts.
Are you confident that your child would make a good impression? Or do you foresee this being a total disaster?
As parents, we take pride in our children when they are selected from among their peers for special purposes and recognition.
However, we can be highly disappointed if these opportunities slip through their fingers simply because they lacked the proper skills to communicate and convey their thoughts effectively.
It is very unrealistic (and frankly unfair) for us the think that our children, when placed in these situations, will somehow magically know the right things to say, at the right time, and in the right manner.
Children need practice with using effective communication skills.
Here are three simple practices that you can integrate into your daily routine to promote strong communication skills in your children.
1. Provide the Opportunity
Children cannot improve their communication skills if they are never given the opportunity to communicate. Therefore, give them the opportunity in day-to-day situations to interact with people in their environment. Some examples include:
· ordering their food from the car window at the local fast-food chain
· placing their order with the server while dining at a family restaurant
· asking a store employee where the restrooms are located
· asking for assistance in the library
· thanking your postal or maintenance worker
· asking a sibling to borrow a toy/tablet/etc.
2. Reward Their Efforts
When your children make the effort to speak up for himself or herself, celebrate their efforts. Be specific and point out what they did right.
For example, you may say, “Good for you! I really like the way you spoke clearly when ordering your burger,” or “You sounded so confident when you and the store manager were talking together. I’m proud of you.”
3. Set a Great Example
Remember that our children are sponges. They are constantly learning from us. Let’s make sure that we are setting a great example for them to follow.
So when you communicate with family, friends, community helpers, co-workers, employers, and with them, be sure to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
