Bridging the Gap: Essential Conversation Skills
For many kids, teens, and even adults, social interactions can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. It can feel confusing, overwhelming, and even stressful.
Here are a few conversation skills that can help anyone improve their social interactions:
STARTING CONVERSATIONS: Beginning a conversation can feel scary, especially if you're not sure what to say or you feel anxious. To make it easier, try using simple conversation starters like, “How’s it going?” or “How was your weekend?”.
UNDERSTANDING BODY LANGUAGE: When we pay attention to someone’s facial expressions and body language, we are getting more information about how they feel during the interaction. It might be hard for some people to pick up on these hidden clues, but with practice and support, you can get better at reading non-verbal cues and understanding what others are feeling and expressing.
ACTIVE LISTENING: Listening isn't just about hearing words – it's about understanding what the other person is saying and knowing what to say next. Some people struggle to listen for important clues, sometimes interrupting or zoning out during conversations, but we can use techniques like paraphrasing and asking follow-up questions to show that we’re listening and interested in what others have to say.
By using these tips, we can improve our conversation skills and feel more confident in social situations!