Examples of Competent Communication

When I think of a competent communicator, I think of my supervisor, Marcy. She just retired but I worked for her for ten years. She was such an effective communicator. She knew just how to communicate with children, staff, colleagues and parents. She listened to what was being communicated to her. She thought before she responded and always knew her audience. Her body language conveyed that she was listening. She maintained eye contact. When talking with children she would acknowledge what they said at times by repeating it back. Her staff knew that her door was always open and that she would listen to us. If we had a problem, she was always there to help problem solve. She taught me that what I have to say is important. She continually pushed me in the right direction as communicating with parents was hard for me. She was always there to encourage. She helped me to see that I could accomplish anything, including obtaining a Master’s Degree.

           

I would and do model her communication behavior. When Marcy communicated with children, parents and staff, she gave them her undivided attention. She really listened. She knew exactly who she was talking to and what she needed to do to meet their needs. The children knew that she loved and respected them. The parents knew that she was there to help in any way that she could and the teachers and staff knew that she cared about them and wanted what was best for them. I will miss her every day. Marcy taught me that good communication is important in our field. In order to maintain excellence and the well-being of everyone, good communication is vital. I try to communicate effectively with children, colleagues and families. I am so excited to be taking this course as I am sure that there is so much more to learn about good communication. I hope that what I learn will help me achieve my goals in the early childhood field.