Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication: What is it and how do we work on it?

What is it? Nonverbal communication is exactly what it sounds like–conveying communication (meaning) to a speaking partner without saying any words. Communication doesn’t always have to be with our verbal speech. We can communicate messages through our body without having to open our mouth at all! We convey messages through our eyes, hands, body positioning, facial expressions, gestures, and sometimes even through the energy that we are pushing out to the world.

When do we see it? Nonverbal communication is everywhere! It is a vital part of all communication and it is an integral part of everyday life. Even if we are not trying to convey messages nonverbally, we are always expressing communication. Averting eye contact can communicate that the person has lost interest, smiling can say you are happy or enjoying the conversation, and slumped shoulders can convey boredom or tiredness. Keep a lookout for nonverbal communication. Try to recognize when you are using nonverbal language to see what messages you are communicating to others on a daily basis. The more awareness we have about the type of messages we are communicating, the more intentional we can be about what thoughts, feelings, and ideas we are sharing!

Why is nonverbal communication important? It is a vital part of human interaction to connect with others. Part of connecting with others is communication and interpreting messages from your communication partner. Accurately reading nonverbal communication is essential to communication and human connection!

How do you work on nonverbal communication? The best way to target nonverbal communication is to practice! Role-playing with your children can provide an opportunity to use gestures, facial expressions, and body language to convey communication. Utilizing picture books, especially ones without words, can also provide excellent lessons and practice with understanding and interpreting the characters facial expressions and setting. Some of our favorite wordless picture books to use in the clinic are Carl Goes Shopping by Alexandra Day, Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rathman, and Frog Goes to Dinner by Mercer Mayer. Another fun activity to practice nonverbal communication is by playing charades! Practicing with your family can be an enjoyable learning exercise, while still having fun!