“I knew you were happy today because you were making jokes” – Ronnie, 6 yrs
Communication is at the heart of understanding and connection.
In this episode of Allies and Friends, children are introduced to the diverse ways people communicate, allowing an opportunity to extend the learning within your setting; enabling a deep dive into verbal and non-verbal communication (such as sign language, whole body movements, gestures, sounds, language, digital and assisted communication, writing or symbols).
Not everyone communicates in the same way, and that’s a good thing. Here’s why …
Children are curious and notice differences almost instantly, which is exactly what their brains are wired to do. When a child notices differences, it is our job to make sure we acknowledge their observations, providing guidance using strength-based language to avoid any negative bias or harmful stereotypes that may be associated with their observation.
By celebrating differences and showing children that various ways of communicating are valuable, we teach them that diversity is a strength. This helps children understand that speaking different languages, using sign language, or expressing themselves through art, technology or non-verbal cues, are all wonderful ways to communicate aiding their development of a personal toolkit for connecting with others. This not only enhances their own communication skills but also builds a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone’s voice and ideas are heard, valued and respected.
Let’s break it down
Photo – CJ Cannon Photography
We have found that children often first think of communication as spoken language but as we know that is just one aspect of communication. In Allies and Friends: Communication, we started with spoken language and ventured into other forms of communication.
We first introduced words in languages such as Maori and Punjabi to broaden understanding and appreciation for linguistic diversity. This gently integrated inclusion allows young viewers to learn about and respect different languages and cultures.
A child’s home language, family or carer’s mother tongue are often their first language is a vital part of their identity, helping them feel connected to their culture and community. In early childhood settings, nurturing a child’s right to use their home language supports their social, personal, and academic development, while strengthening their ties to family and fostering a positive sense of self.
Do you encourage children to learn simple greetings or common phrases in languages other than their own to spark curiosity and build respect for cultural diversity at your early childhood education and care setting?
Non-verbal communication
Photo – CJ Cannon Photography
Through observation, the children created a world of understanding, proving that connection doesn’t always require words—only attentiveness and shared intent.
We know that communication isn’t limited to words. Sign language, body language, facial expressions and digital and assisted communication play crucial roles, especially for those who may not use spoken language. Exploring these forms of communication through play fosters inclusivity and empathy. Mirroring facial expressions or learning basic sign language can help children understand the importance of non-verbal cues.
Photo – CJ Cannon Photography
Writing and technology
As children grow, they encounter various ways to communicate through writing, symbols, imagery and technology. Experiences like drawing, using eTablets, learning or using brail or sending voice messages can illustrate how different aids can assist in effective communication, especially for those with complex learning profiles.
Sensory communication
Our senses are powerful tools for communication, particularly as children engage with their world through play. By exploring how sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing contributes to understanding and expressing feelings, children learn to pay attention to their environment and the people around them. Sensory activities, such as exploring different textures or listening to various sounds, can enhance their understanding of non-verbal communication.
Please note – When exploring any communication or sensory activities, ensure that the available resources are appropriate and accessible for the children participating.
All communication styles are important
By prioritising diverse communication styles, children learn to appreciate cultural diversity and develop the skills to be supportive allies to their friends and community members. This also helps them break down barriers related to communication and differences.
Communication is the basis of EYLF Outcome 5 – Children are effective communicators. Our friends Ronnie and Orlena showcase that communication is more than just talking and or listening; it is also about decoding what the other person is communicating and embracing different communication styles and collaborating with each other’s communication styles.
Through play, Ronnie and Orlena use their senses – touch, smell, sight, hearing, and taste in the community garden, the playground, and the sandpit. By doing so, they learn to translate each other’s communication beyond words. Our friends have to pay close attention to each other during their water and sandpit play in order to build and reach shared goals; activating allyship through teamwork.
Photo – CJ Cannon Photography
Children playing together from different cultures will naturally engage in cross-cultural communication and as demonstrated in this episode, we see the use of the word “Puni” (Water in Punjabi) becoming a central element to their creation.
An inclusive and culturally aware environment empowers children to express their cultural practices and home languages without pressure to conform or assimilate. It’s essential to normalise and discuss different communication styles, ensuring accessibility for every child. This approach reassures children that they can express themselves in their own ways, fostering genuine cross-cultural communication.
We should aim to normalise inclusive practices, such as embedding various communication styles and languages within the setting. Inclusion is an action.
Communication through play
Telephone Game
A classic experience that demonstrates how messages can change as they are passed along, highlighting the importance of clear communication.
How to Play:
1.Children form a line or circle, close enough to whisper but far enough that they can’t overhear the next person.
2.Start with a short, simple message and whisper it to the first child.
3.Each child whispers the message to the next, with no repeats allowed.
4. The last child says the message aloud to see how much it has changed from the original.
Mirror Game
Children stand or sit in pairs, with one child acting as the “leader” and the other as the “mirror.” The leader performs slow and deliberate movements, such as raising their hands, making facial expressions, or turning in place, while the “mirror” tries to copy the movements as closely as possible.
Watch this REFLECTION VIDEO together with children, then follow up with the questions and planning ideas below.
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Encourage children to think and communicate about these questions:
How do you feel when someone speaks to you in a different language?
Without using your words, how might you ask someone for help or give them directions?
Can you think of a time when you understood someone without using words? What was it like?
Why is it important to listen with our whole body, using our senses, to our friends or people in our community when they are speaking or communicating?
Without words, how else can we show kindness to someone?
Case study
Bridging children’s contexts for communication inclusion
At a primarily English-speaking early childhood setting, teachers made a special effort for each child whose first language wasn’t English, celebrating bilingualism and the importance of cultural connection. For one family, the teachers learned Shauna phrases and played music from both parents’ cultures to help their son feel more comfortable.
“They tried to bridge that gap between home and setting, so kids have a stronger connection and don’t feel so much separation anxiety,” said the mother.
This approach not only helped their son settle but also exposed other children to diverse languages and cultures, fostering inclusion and celebrating each child’s connection to their heritage.
