Children and Young People

301.

2.1While supporting a new child in school during a numeracy lesson, the main communication skills I would use would be, active listening, as this boosts confidence. Open ended questions, as this encourages conversation. Positive response’s, which encourages consideration for others, and boost’s confidence.301.2.

2When supporting a child in class as a year 4 T.A, adapting communication styles are usually needed when working with lower ability children. I would be patient for responses, use developmentally appropriate language and always be on the same eye level. By using these styles the child feels more confident in lesson, and shows more interest when answering questions.To make communication more effective with children I would always be on the same eye level, allow sufficient time for responses and keep information clear.

When communicating with adults eye to eye contact would be sustained, but response time does not need to be exaggerated. Adults.Scenario 1.When contacting a parent about an incident at school, I would telephone them, while using the correct form of address and showing courtesy and respect at all times.

Adapting this communication could consist of writing a letter if the parent’s first language isn’t English. Being friendly and courteous establishes rapport and professional relationships. I would use questions to clarify and check understanding, also summarise and confirm key points at the end of the conversation/letter. This ensures both parties are clear on what is to happen.Scenario 2.When dealing with an upset colleague I would use the following skills.

Eye contact, as this encourages the person to open up. Active listening, shows interest and boosts self- esteem. Also showing friendliness establishes professional relationships.Scenario 3.When being put into a group of people I have not met before, I would establish rapport and a professional relationship by firstly introducing myself and asking the names of others.

Being helpful, in a practical way. Being open and friendly, as this establishes good professional relationships.Scenario 4.The communication skills I would use when being invited for tea by a Bangladesh mother who speaks little English would be, eye contact, visual props, and simple unambiguous language.Scenario 5.The most successful method of communication to use when passing lesson objectives from the teacher to a deaf colleague would be, a written form of the lesson objective in its simplest form.

Speak clearly, use visual props and ensure my face is visible when speaking.Scenario 6.The skills I would use while in an interview for a new position at school would be, active listening, eye contact throughout, courtesy, respect and positive responses.Scenario 7.

The skills and techniques I would use to resolve misunderstandings and conflicts constructively would include numerous things. Firstly I would adhere to the schools behaviour policy, and follow necessary procedure. I would also make eye contact and move closer to the child who is misbehaving, so they are aware of an adult presence. Also a time out may be required if the child needs time to calm down.

Action to take.Scenario 8.While on playground duty and witnessing a volunteer helper turning on a T.A, I would firstly find the nearest first aider in the area to deal with the child.

After the child has been seen, I would address the volunteer with the correct form of address and make sure I am friendly and approachable, while explaining it is inappropriate to speak to a member of staff in that manner in front of the children. Also the school has rules that need to be followed when a child has an accident.Scenario 9.While witnessing 4 year old Sahid and Gemma having a disagreement over who’s turn it is, I would lower myself to the eye level of the children and explain to Gemma that Sahid is riding the trike and we need to ‘take turns’ and share.

I would explain that it is not nice behaviour to grab the trike while Sahid is riding it and we must apologise when we have exhibited ‘not nice’ behaviour. I would explain that she can have her turn after Sahid has finished.305.3.

5I have recently been in a situation where I have had to refer an adult to a further source of information, advice and support. I have a friend who works in mental health and has recently had some medical problems of her own. Due to this she has had to have some considerable time off, resulting in the company she works for putting pressure on her to return to work. I advised her to seek advice from her union representative regarding this. The communication methods I used regarding this were, active listening, positive responses and a sympathetic approach.