Observing Communication

 

As we have learned, observation can be a powerful tool for expanding our understanding of mindful communication. For this Blog Assignment, I had the opportunity to observe an adult and young child communicating and reflect on how the ways in which the adult engages in interactions demonstrates the kinds of effective communication I have been learning about this week.

 

I observed my friend and her daughter in their backyard as she was playing with her brother. Kylah and Gryffin played on their fourwheelers and followed each other around their run, laughing and smiling. They were happy and enjoyed the beautiful fall day. As they drove around, the children would look at their mom (Cheray) for her approval and made sure that she was watching them. When they would go past, Kylah yelled “Hi Mama!” and Cheray acknowledged her daughter and son by waving, smiling and told them they are doing a great job.

There were many connections between what I observed, and the effective communication strategies presented in this week’s learning resources including listening. Cheray as an active listener and was very responsive to her children’s signals and cues (Stephenson, 2009).

The communication interactions I observed may have influenced the children’s sense of self-worth because they wanted to show their mom how they were able to be independent and drive their fourwheelers in the yard and when their mom responded with positive feedback, it boosted their self-esteem.  

Overall, I have learned the importance of observing, listening to children and then responding. Listening is essential skill that we need to really focus on when communicating with children and families.

 

Reference

Stephenson, A. (2009). Stepping Back to Listen to Jeff: Conversations with a 2-Year-Old. YC: Young Children, 64(2), 90–95.