As a therapist with a background in child and adolescent behavior and development, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful body language can be in communicating with children. Body language, defined as the non-verbal signals we use to communicate, includes facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact. These cues play a crucial role in how we interact with others, often conveying more than our words alone. For both kids and adults, understanding and effectively using body language can enhance communication, build trust, and improve relationships.
Most of us know “the look”—the one our parents gave us that made us stop in our tracks. I’ve witnessed countless kids in my office who have learned to act out while their parents ineffectively repeat, lecture, beg, and threaten with words that have lost their impact.
While I respect the theories, research, case studies, and techniques in the field, I also believe the “old school” method of using body language and fewer words is a lost art. This approach can catch a child’s attention, redirect behaviors, foster connection, and allow both parent and child a moment to pause and think.
Understanding the Power of Body Language
Why Body Language Matters
Anyone who has children, had children, work with children or are around children for any length of time know how much we waste our words and wear ourselves out…like a “broken record”. How many times have you known the child is not listening and tuning you out? You are right, many times, the child is not listening and does not plan on doing so any time soon.
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