Communication is the key to life. How do we teach communication? Our students use it on a daily basis. They use it to get what they want, show what they are learning, and build relationships.
If your office is like mine, it is a revolving door for communication problems. Friends are upset with friends because of a miscommunication. Our students are using texts and instant messages so much to communicate that they are not practicing their interpersonal skills as much.
It is important that we teach our student’s body language and how to speak to one another. Communication is a key in conflict resolution.
How do we actually teach it?
Like anything practice is a key ingredient. The more our students can practice communicating with one another the stronger their skills will become.
Model communication skills. We get so busy at our desks sometimes that we forget to model good communication skills. Look at students when they are speaking to you. Don’t look at your computer or phone until they are done. Adults often have bad habits of not fully listening to kids. They pick up on this and then don’t listen to others.
Give students opportunities to communicate with one another. This could be as simple as not allowing electronic devices in the cafeteria. Students then must look at one another. Use The Mind Trek Program to help teach communication.
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