Observing Communication
Provide an account of your
observation. A teacher and a child were in a general conversation about small things
Describe what you noticed and
learned. The teacher was engaging in conversation with the child and giving the child their attention. The child was very excited about what they were talking about and seemed to enjoy the teachers company.
Make connections between what you observed and the
effective communication strategies presented in this week’s learning resources.
What could have been done to make the communication more affirming and
effective? I believe the communication was affirming and effective. The child kept talking and the teacher stayed right there with the child, giving them their attention. When another child would come over, they would reach out and acknowledge them by touching their hand or head, or holding in a side hug.
Share your thoughts with regard to how the
communication interactions you observed may have affected the child's feelings
and/or any influences it may have had on the child's sense of self
worth. From what I observed, it seems that the child was happy and felt safe. They kept talking and no matter if another child came over, they didn't stop talking.
Offer insights on how the adult-child communication
you observed this week compares to the ways in which you communicate with the
children. What have you learned about yourself this week with respect to how
well you talk with and listen to young children? In what ways could you
improve? I give children the attention needed when they want to talk to me or tell me something. There is nothing that changed in how I communicate with children.
Hello Ayonie-
ReplyDeleteI love when children tell me stories as they are usually so excited and eager to get your full attention! I agree in that the child you described felt safe and happy. According to Kovach and Da Ros-Voseles (2011) touching gently is a wonderful way to show a tender response while communicating with babies. I also feel that hugs, touching a child's shoulder, or giving a pat on the back lets children know “we are here for you, value and respect you.” Of course, it varies from child to child due to sensory needs, but overall, I try to get some sort of touch to assure children I care about them. I wonder what the child and teacher were talking about? I love listening to children and their stories…I love the conversations my daughter’s bring home:)
References:
Kovach, B., & Da Ros-Voseles, D. (2011). Communicating with babies. YC:
Young Children, 66(2), 48-50.
I really enjoy the interactions and conversations that we come across when working with children. Children thrive off of some type of praise no matter what it is they have done. A high five, thumbs up, pat on the shoulder just a small touch is all they are looking for throughout their day. Children tell some of the best stories and sometimes it can take you by surprise. My daughter is 9 years old and since she was in kindergarten she can tell you everything that happens in her classes, she can name all the students in her class, and this is on day one of school, and whatever is told to her. My boys enjoy just sitting and talking. I get a bit of comfort and relaxation from just sitting and talking with my children as do they. Thanks for sharing.
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