The Young Communicator – Common Communication Scenarios for Your Child

 

 

In the modern classroom, we are starting to see more emphasis being placed on communication/public speaking training for our young students. Whether it is for a class assignment or as a matter of personal interest, most of our young students themselves are starting to appreciate the importance of communication settings in their day-to-day settings.

Being a young communicator is not that straightforward – both for your child and yourself as parents! There are many new scenarios or elements to consider at school, at home, or even at play. From that school project to creating strong first impressions, it may be difficult for a young communicator growing up to pick up all the relevant skills needed for each scenario. At the same time, this early age is the best time for your child to start their habit-building process in a safe and constructive environment, both in school and at home.

Today, we will share three of the common communication scenarios that your child will face either at school or at home and how they can prepare for them!

 

Scenario #1:

A Leader in Class and at Home

 

 

Leadership is a broad topic to cover, especially for the young leaders out there. However, one of the underlying skills that will prove useful is communication skills in a leadership setting. These skills are particularly useful for your child as they are versatile enough to fit into other communication settings as well. Developing communication skills in a leadership setting may also help imbue confidence for your child generally.

One of the common leadership scenarios they will face is as a facilitator or guiding role for their classmates or teammates. This involves helping teachers or the school liaise with the students or organise their classmates for an event or project. The key skill involved is the ability to digest and pass down information clearly and confidently. Your child can focus on aspects such as signposting (e.g. “The teacher has three things he needs us to accomplish today – first …”). Another technique to help in the facilitative role is to be firm and give reasons for the instructions being passed down. By doing so, your child is more likely to receive the cooperation of their classmates or teammates!

 

Scenario #2:

Inspire and Shine!

 

Another communication scenario your child may find themselves in is a position to inspire or be a role model. This is slightly distinct from a leadership role as it may consist of one-off, larger-scale communication setting. One example is the valedictorian speech. We have observed that some schools are starting to introduce the concept of a valedictorian and the accompanying speech, even for our young students. A valedictorian speech is typically heartfelt, moving, and inspiring, and that can be a challenge for your child!

One technique suited for this scenario is vocal quality. In a larger-scale event especially (e.g. addressing the entire school), your child’s voice can be a stand-out quality. For example, your child can adopt a more formal, measured pace (think of how Obama addressed the nation when he was the President of the USA!). This is not a skill reserved for adults. Instead, if your child can cultivate this control at a young age, they can develop confidence in their habit-building skills for other special occasions.

 

*Perhaps A Head Prefect Speech? Election Speech?*

 

*Perhaps A Valedictorian’s Speech To Spur Schoolmates On*

 

Scenario #3:

Assignment-Based Roles

Beyond the traditional roles above, your child may find themselves in other communication settings that may be equally challenging. An example of this would be interview skills. By this, we don’t just mean your child’s ability to perform well in an interview! Rather, some schools are starting to include their students in school-wide activities such as newsletter crafting or reporting. This may involve interviewing skills. One important aspect of this communication setting is the ability to understand and ask relevant questions (e.g. personal experience, opinion-based).

Another school-wide role that your child may face is that of an ambassador. This may involve playing the role of a tour guide during school orientation or key events. Your child will need to pick up the relevant techniques in creating a strong first impression (e.g. being empathetic, developing strong conversation skills). These varied roles can help your child become a versatile communicator!

 

 

Your Young Communicator!

The early stages of developing your child’s speaking personality are always exciting. At the same time, they must receive a safe and constructive environment to grow as speakers, no matter what the setting is. With the sharing above, your child can have a quick guide to prepare them for the various communication opportunities awaiting them in school and at home!

 

By The Way…

If you’re keen to take your child’s public speaking & presentation skills (either kids in-class presentation or adult business/corporate presentation) to the next level so that he/ she may public speak and present with flair and charisma, feel free to check out our offerings below!

 

For more about our Public Speaking Course for Kids / Children:

https://www.publicspeakingacademy.com.sg/group-classes-students-age-9-18/

 

For more about our Public Speaking Course for Adults :

https://www.publicspeakingacademy.com.sg/courses-and-programs/group-classes-for-adults/