Everyday conversations with children can offer useful chances to reflect on how adults respond when a child shares a worry, problem or ordinary piece of news. This child communication poster identifies eight common reactions that may make kids stop talking, alongside calmer, more supportive alternatives for parents, carers, teachers and child-facing practitioners.
A clear visual reminder helps adults pause before reacting and choose responses that keep communication open. The poster focuses on listening skills for children and young people, covering situations where adults rush to fix a problem, react with shock or anger, interrupt, ask too many questions, dismiss a concern, or tell a child how they should feel.
Each of the eight sections explains why a particular adult response can shut down conversation, then offers an alternative phrase or approach. Practical prompts include hearing the whole story before giving advice, saying “I’m glad you told me. Tell me more”, allowing children to use their own words, and asking one question at a time.
Parents, foster carers, school staff, family support workers and social workers can print the sheet as a parenting discussion prompt, classroom staff-room reminder or resource for child and family sessions. It is particularly suited to adults supporting primary-age children and teenagers who may find it hard to talk about worries, friendships, school incidents or upsetting experiences.
The final points emphasise leaving the door open when a child is not ready to speak and listening to everyday stories as well as serious disclosures. Used in reflective practice, parenting groups or one-to-one work, the poster can support conversations about active listening, emotional validation, child-led communication and building trust over time.
