Anyone around a group of kids knows they have unique communication superpowers – and I don’t mean their ability to talk each other’s ears off! I’m talking about their openness and curiosity, which makes their conversations so refreshing and raw. As adults with years of complex social rules embedded in our brains, we sometimes forget the importance of basic communication skills. Communication skills are a primary developmental task in early childhood. They allow children to interact with others and have their needs met. Whether your child has learning disabilities, a diagnosis of autism or ADHD, or none of the above, strong communication skills are the foundation for success in all areas of life, from friendships and academics to future careers.
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Let’s explore some crucial communication skills that can help transform your child’s social experience and maybe even refresh your own!
1. Active Listening
Think back to a time you felt totally ‘heard’ by someone. Maybe a friend listened intently as you vented, or a teacher helped you grasp a complicated concept. That’s active listening in action – it focuses on truly understanding another person’s message. Active listening has superpowers that go beyond making people feel seen. It helps reduce misunderstandings, facilitates effective problem-solving, and builds stronger relationships.
2. Nonverbal Communication
We all do it—from shrugs and eye rolls to enthusiastic nods. Nonverbal communication includes everything from facial expressions, body language, and gestures to tone of voice and touch. These cues greatly influence how others perceive us and give our words context. Kids sensitive to nonverbal communication have an advantage in understanding others and expressing themselves more effectively.
3. Empathy
Empathy means stepping into another person’s shoes, sensing their emotions, and showing compassion. It’s a cornerstone of meaningful relationships and a powerful guide for social behavior. A child with empathy can better understand social situations and respond in ways that show others they care. Here is an excellent example of empathy: A child is on the playground and notices another child sitting off by themselves, looking sad, after arguing with a friend on the swings. This child with solid empathy skills might approach the other child and ask them if they are okay and want to play.
4. Conflict Resolution
Every day brings opportunities for conflict, from squabbles over toys on the playground to disagreements over homework with parents. Learning these skills allows kids the confidence to address differences in respectful, productive ways. It can turn a fight into a growth opportunity. Here is an example of how a child can use conflict resolution skills: If two children are playing with the same ball on the playground, instead of hitting the other child, a child who has strong conflict resolution skills may instead ask to take a turn or ask another child to join their game. Parents can help their children with these skills by staying calm during a fight, asking both children to describe their feelings, and problem-solving with both children involved to come up with an inclusive solution.
Read more: How to Help Your Child Make Friends
5. Conversation Skills
The simple act of conversation is a complex mix of social skills. From knowing how to start a conversation, maintain it, and politely end it, conversational skills are essential for connecting with others. It’s how kids make friends on the bus, build connections with teachers, and make their needs known throughout the day.
6. Respectful Disagreement
Sometimes, friends and family don’t see things eye-to-eye. Healthy communication includes space for respectful disagreement. It’s teaching children how to express their opposing views in ways that maintain a positive relationship. A great analogy you can share with your child is that disagreeing doesn’t always mean arguing. You can explain that just because two people have different thoughts does not mean they dislike each other.
7. Asking for Help
From toddlers struggling with their shoes to teens stuck on a challenging math problem, knowing when and how to ask for help is vital. It takes self-awareness to recognize our limits and the courage to admit them. Teaching kids is not a sign of weakness; asking for support builds confident learners and problem-solvers.
Goally | Apps that Teach Kids AAC & Core Words
Is your child facing challenges in expressing themselves or communicating effectively? Goally has one of the best language language learning apps for kids to support their journey in building essential communication skills!
The Word Lab and AAC Talker apps provide a simple, engaging platform for your child to learn core words and become a functional communicator right from the start. Customize the experience with a voice that suits them, and watch as their confidence grows in expressing their thoughts and needs!
These communication skills are lifelines, connecting kids with the world around them in ways that bring joy, success, and deep connections. Remember, kids are still under construction—they’ll have missteps and off days. Keep offering those listening ears and that steady, supportive presence, and celebrate even the smallest communication victories with them!
Here are three sources to learn more about communication skills for kids:
- The Understood Website: This website is a comprehensive resource for parents of kids with learning and thinking differences, covering everything from special needs advocacy to practical skills development.
- The Child Mind Institute: This nonprofit organization focuses on improving the lives of kids with mental health struggles and learning disorders, providing educational articles and resources.
- Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL): A national center focused on research in early childhood social-emotional learning, CSEFEL shares resources specifically designed for educators and parents.
FAQ’s About Communication Skills for Kids
Why are communication skills important for kids? Communication skills help kids form friendships, express their needs, resolve conflicts, and succeed in school and life. What are some basic communication skills for children? Important communication skills for kids include active listening, understanding nonverbal cues, showing empathy, resolving conflicts peacefully, and asking for help when needed. How can I help my child develop strong communication skills? Model good communication, provide opportunities for practice (e.g., role-playing), read books about feelings, and offer praise for positive communication efforts. What are some signs my child might struggle with communication? Look for difficulty understanding others, expressing themselves clearly, staying on-topic in conversations, or interacting appropriately in social situations. Where can I find resources to support my child's communication development? Consider websites like Understood (for kids with learning differences), the Child Mind Institute, school counselors, or speech-language pathologists.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
