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Positive Indicators of Nonverbal Communication

by T.E. Smith|B.C. Gartin|N.L. Murdick|A. Hilton
Source: Pearson Allyn Bacon Prentice Hall
Topics: Advocating for Your Child at School, Communicating With Children of All Ages

The goal of non-verbal communication is to put the other person at ease while receiving the message. Non-verbally expressing an open and positive attitude leads to a supportive and collaborative atmosphere in which goals may be met. The table below describes the positive indicators of non-verbal communication during two-way communication.

Area Positive Indicators
Body
  • Turn and face sender.
  • Relax your body.
  • Lean slightly forward toward the person.
  • Move slowly.
  • Limit repetitive movements(e.g., moving a leg up and down).
Head
  • Nod to express your understanding.
  • Tilt or turn an ear slightly toward the sender to help indicate you are listening.
Face
  • Look at the person but be aware of their comfort.
  • Smile frequently.
Arms
  • Keep arms relaxed and open.
  • Rest arms on the table or the arm of your chair.
Hands
  • Keep hands open with palms up.
  • Touch the person gently.
  • Use gestures of understanding.
Voice
  • Use a soft tone of voice.
  • Reduce verbiage.

Excerpted From:

Families and Children with Special Needs: Professional and Family Partnerships
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Excerpt from Families and Children with Special Needs: Professional and Family Partnerships, by T.E. Smith & B.C. Gartin & N.L. Murdick & A. Hilton, 2006 edition, p. 105.

© 2006, Merrill, an imprint of Pearson Education Inc. Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

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