Nonverbal communication refers to how individuals share messages and emotions without using words. This type of interaction plays a significant role in early childhood as children learn to express themselves through facial expressions, gestures, body language, and tone of voice. For young children, especially those who have not yet developed strong verbal skills, nonverbal signals can reveal how they feel, what they need, or what they find interesting.
Parents often rely on nonverbal cues from their children to interpret emotions or requests. For instance, toddlers might tug at a parent’s hand to indicate they want attention or point to a toy they wish to play with. This nonverbal interaction fosters a sense of connection and lays the groundwork for verbal communication as children grow. It is also integral to understanding how children relate to their environment and the people around them.
Nonverbal communication is often subtly woven into everyday life, with gestures, eye contact, and even touch, shaping interactions. Developing and recognising these cues is essential for children’s emotional and social development, particularly during the formative years. Understanding the depth of this communication allows parents to build stronger, more responsive relationships with their children.
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What Percentage of Communication is Nonverbal?
Research highlights that a significant portion of communication is nonverbal, often estimated at around 70-93%. This figure comes from studies suggesting that tone of voice, gestures, and facial expressions carry much of the weight in interactions. While the exact percentage can vary depending on context and culture, it’s evident that nonverbal cues are key to how humans connect.
For children, nonverbal communication often takes precedence as they develop verbal language. A baby’s cry, for example, combined with its body movements, can indicate hunger, discomfort, or a need for reassurance. Older children, too, use nonverbal methods—like crossing their arms or avoiding eye contact—to express emotions or reactions that they may not yet articulate with words.
Recognising the prevalence of nonverbal communication helps parents respond effectively to their child’s needs, even before words come into play. It is important to remember that nonverbal signals often complement verbal communication, enriching individual exchange.
How Much of Communication is Nonverbal?
The amount of nonverbal communication conveyed in day-to-day interactions depends on the situation and the individual. When words are limited, such as with infants or children with communication delays, the role of nonverbal communication becomes especially significant.
For instance, a preschooler who is upset might not say, “I’m sad,” but their slumped posture, teary eyes, and quiet demeanor may communicate that message just as clearly. On the other hand, a child excitedly jumping and clapping their hands conveys enthusiasm without needing to speak a single word.
Cultural norms also influence how much nonverbal communication is used. While verbal exchanges are valued, nonverbal cues like direct eye contact, a friendly smile, or a pat on the back play an important role in conveying warmth, trust, and understanding in interactions. Parents can look for these subtle signals to interpret and respond to their child’s unspoken needs.
What is the Difference Between Verbal and Nonverbal Communication?
Verbal communication involves using words, spoken or written, to convey messages. It allows for precise articulation of thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Nonverbal communication, by contrast, relies on body language, facial expressions, gestures, tone, and other non-linguistic cues to share meaning. Together, they form a complete communication system that enhances how people connect.
Children often rely more heavily on nonverbal cues, particularly in their early years when verbal skills are still emerging. For example, an infant will use cooing sounds combined with eye contact to express happiness, while a toddler might reach out their arms to indicate they want to be picked up. These nonverbal actions offer a glimpse into their thoughts and feelings, even before they develop the vocabulary to articulate them.
While verbal communication conveys information with clarity, nonverbal communication adds depth by showing how a person feels about what they are saying. A child may say “I’m fine” with words but clench their fists or avoid eye contact, signalling they’re actually upset. For parents, it’s essential to pay attention to verbal and nonverbal communication to understand what their child is expressing.
Mastering verbal and nonverbal forms of expression allows children to interact more effectively with their peers and adults, promoting social and emotional development.
Why is Nonverbal Communication Important?
Nonverbal communication is a cornerstone of emotional connection and social interaction. For children, it often serves as the primary way to express needs, emotions, and thoughts, especially before verbal skills are fully developed. Even as they grow, nonverbal signals like a hug, a frown, or a smile remain essential in conveying feelings that words alone may not capture.
Parents play a critical role in nurturing their child’s nonverbal communication skills. By responding to gestures, facial expressions, and body language, they show their child that their feelings are acknowledged and respected. This responsive interaction fosters a secure attachment and encourages children to explore their environment confidently.
Nonverbal communication is also vital for social development. A child who can interpret and use nonverbal cues effectively is more likely to form positive relationships with peers and adults. For example, recognising a friend’s unhappy face teaches empathy, while understanding a teacher’s raised hand signals the need for silence.
For children with delayed communication or other developmental challenges, nonverbal communication can bridge gaps, providing an alternative way to connect with the world. By prioritising these signals, parents and caregivers support their child’s ability to communicate and thrive.
What Are Some Examples of Nonverbal Communication in Children?
Nonverbal communication in children evolves as they grow, offering valuable insights into their emotions and needs.
Infancy to Preschool (0-4 years)
During these early years, children primarily rely on nonverbal signals to communicate. Infants express themselves through crying, cooing, and giggling, often paired with body movements such as kicking, reaching, or arching their back. These signals indicate everything from hunger to discomfort to delight.
As toddlers, gestures become more purposeful. Pointing at objects, waving goodbye, or clapping hands are common ways to communicate. Facial expressions also become more nuanced; a furrowed brow might show confusion, while wide eyes and an open mouth can convey excitement.
By kindergarten, children combine words with nonverbal cues, such as nodding for “yes” or shaking their head for “no.” Their body language, such as leaning forward to show interest or crossing arms to signal frustration, often provides context to their spoken words.
Primary School-Aged Children (5-12 years)
In primary school, nonverbal communication becomes more refined. Children start using gestures and facial expressions to convey emotions and navigate social interactions. For example, they might roll their eyes in response to a teasing comment or give a thumbs-up to show approval.
Older children also become more adept at interpreting nonverbal cues from others. Recognising a friend’s smile or frown can guide how they interact, fostering stronger relationships. Body language, such as standing tall to appear confident or slouching when feeling shy, plays an increasingly significant role in their self-presentation.
Parents can support their child’s development throughout these stages by modelling positive nonverbal communication, such as maintaining eye contact, using gentle touches, and offering encouraging smiles.
Supporting Connection Through Communication
Nonverbal communication is a vital thread in the fabric of human interaction, especially for children. From infancy through primary school, children rely on gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language to share their needs, emotions, and ideas. Parents can foster stronger connections, encourage emotional growth, and build a foundation for effective verbal communication by paying close attention to these signals.
Recognising and responding to nonverbal cues allows parents to meet their child’s needs with care and sensitivity. Whether through a reassuring hug, a gentle smile, or simply observing a child’s body language, these small moments of connection have a lasting impact. For children with communication delays or developmental differences, nonverbal communication offers an invaluable way to bridge the gap and build meaningful relationships.
Ultimately, nurturing both verbal and nonverbal communication supports a child’s overall development, empowering them to navigate their world with confidence and empathy.
FAQs
What is Classified as Nonverbal Communication?
Nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and even physical space in interactions. These cues are often culturally shaped, such as maintaining eye contact to show attentiveness or using a smile to convey warmth.
What is Nonverbal Communication in Infancy-Toddlers?
Infants and toddlers communicate nonverbally through crying, cooing, pointing, and gestures like reaching or clapping. Facial expressions, such as smiles or frowns, also play a significant role in conveying emotions and needs.
What is Nonverbal Communication in 3-5-Year-Olds?
Children aged 3-5 use gestures like waving or nodding, facial expressions, and body language to complement their emerging verbal skills. For example, they might shrug to show uncertainty or stomp their feet in frustration.
What is Nonverbal Communication in Primary-School Aged Children?
Primary school-aged children refine their nonverbal communication, using it to navigate social interactions. This includes gestures like thumbs-up, facial expressions to convey subtle emotions, and body language to reflect confidence or nervousness.
Why is Nonverbal Communication Important?
Nonverbal communication helps children express emotions, connect with others, and navigate social relationships. It often serves as a bridge for understanding their feelings and needs before they fully develop verbal skills.
Should I Be Concerned If My Child Only Uses Nonverbal Communication?
It may be worth consulting a speech pathologist if your child primarily relies on nonverbal communication beyond typical developmental milestones. Early intervention can provide support and strategies to help your child develop verbal skills if needed.
Further Reading:
Nonverbal communication is essential for children’s social, emotional, and language development. Below are recommended resources, including academic journals, websites, and books, to help parents and clinicians deepen their understanding and support children effectively.
Journals & Research Articles
- International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology – Covers research on communication development, including nonverbal communication and its role in early childhood. Available via Speech Pathology Australia: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Journal – Focuses on communication strategies for individuals who rely on nonverbal communication. Accessible via: www.tandfonline.com
- Journal of Communication Disorders – Publishes studies on language development, communication challenges, and intervention strategies: www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-communication-disorders
Websites & Online Resources
- Speech Pathology Australia – Offers information on communication development, AAC, and professional services in Queensland: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au
- Raising Children Network – Provides evidence-based articles on child communication milestones, social-emotional skills, and nonverbal communication: www.raisingchildren.net.au
- Queensland Health Child Development Service – Offers assessment services and guidance for children with communication difficulties: www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au
- The Hanen Centre – Provides parent-friendly resources and professional training on supporting communication in children, including those who rely on nonverbal communication: www.hanen.org
- Autism Queensland – Offers resources and support for children who primarily use nonverbal communication, including alternative communication methods: www.autismqld.com.au
Books for Parents
- “The Power of Gesture: How Body Language, Facial Expressions, and Movement Shape Our Communication” by Susan Goldin-Meadow – Explores the science behind nonverbal communication and its impact on development.
- “More Than Words: Helping Parents Promote Communication and Social Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder” by Fern Sussman – Focuses on supporting nonverbal and minimally verbal children through alternative communication methods.
- “Beyond Words: Using Gestures, Facial Expressions, and Body Language to Communicate with Your Child” by Milly Smith – A practical guide for parents to foster stronger communication through nonverbal cues.
Books & Professional Resources for Clinicians
- “Introduction to Nonverbal Communication: A Practical Guide for Clinicians and Educators” by Judee Burgoon – A research-backed guide on the role of nonverbal cues in communication.
- “Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs” by David R. Beukelman & Pat Mirenda – A foundational resource on AAC strategies for nonverbal individuals.
- “The SCERTS Model: A Comprehensive Educational Approach for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders” by Barry Prizant – Discusses nonverbal communication strategies for children with developmental differences.
