In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, effective communication and social abilities are essential for kids to thrive. Pragmatic skills, the secret language that goes beyond words, is a critical area addressed in Speech and Language Therapy. These skills shape confident and empathetic communicators. COVID restrictions impacted children in many ways, including the development and progression of pragmatic language skills.
Pragmatics can be thought of as the superpowers that help children interact effectively with others. Pragmatics include aspects of communication such as reading body language, understanding humor, and adapting communication to different situations. Pragmatics help children become masters of social interaction. They can “read the room” and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the message they are sending is received. These skills are taught by a Speech Pathologist in Speech and Language Therapy.
Speech Therapy
Adults recognize the importance of pragmatic language skills in their daily interactions with co-workers and supervisors, and how challenges in these areas can stall their careers. Pragmatic skills are essential for children developing relationships as well. Effective communication builds strong connections and allows children to understand others’ perspectives. It helps them express their thoughts clearly, work together with empathy and respect, and solve problems together.
There is also a relationship between pragmatic skills and academic access. Children with effective communication abilities can understand complex ideas, participate in class discussions with confidence and effectively present their thoughts and ideas. Conflicts happen when people work together, but children with strong pragmatic skills are able to engage in conflict resolution and identify potential consequences. These skills set them up to be successful team members and leaders.
Why it is Important for Children?
Speech and Language Therapy provides those children who do not develop pragmatic skills independently with the ability to learn them. They will participate in role-plays focusing on script development, watching for, and interpreting body language, and expressing their opinions, even if they differ from everyone else’s. Reading and story telling exercises may be used to identify emotions, summarize information, and ask for clarification. Children can develop empathy for others by encouraging them to consider others’ feelings and perspectives. They will learn that everyone may have different experiences and opinions, but that all should be respected and acknowledged.
If you suspect your child may have difficulty in the areas of pragmatics, consult with a Speech Language Pathologist for an evaluation. If you would like more information regarding how your child may benefit from Speech and Language Therapy, please contact me at doreen@thecognitivecoach.net or call me at 732-977-7381.
