Simple Steps For Improving Conversational Skills
Did you realise that most conversations you have as an adult with others are actually following the same script? Here’s what I mean:
“Hi Jen, how are you going.”
“Good thanks. How you been?”
“We’ve been busy - so much to do at work. How are the kids?”
“Yeah, they are arguing with each other as usual, but they love each other. How your kids going?”
Etc.
Scripts work well for you
Guess what… You’re having the same conversations over and over except with different people! Well, your child can learn to do this too.
Scripts can help your child, too
Your child can learn a basic script for interacting with others. It won’t work every time, but it will usually give your child a good start.
A basic script might have questions like this:
- How are you going?
- What have you done for fun, today?
- What are your plans for after school/tonight?
Clearly, it will take more than 3 questions to learn to develop conversational skills, but even knowing 3 good questions to ask prevents your child from freezing up and feeling completely awkward and unable to talk to others.
Best of all, it’s something that you can practice at home.
You’re a great parent (Yes, really!)
Always remember that if you are taking a moment to read this, then clearly, you are a proactive parent and your child is lucky to have you. š
Michael Clark (Course leader for children & teens with Autism)
[NOTE: This is content taken straight from our social skills courses for children with Autism. If this sounds helpful for your child, find out more at www.amazingskills.com.au]
