Communication Strategies with Children and Families
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Physical Therapy for Developmental Delays course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Communication Strategies with Children and Families #
Communication Strategies with Children and Families
Communication strategies with children and families are essential skills for phy… #
Effective communication can help build trust, establish rapport, and facilitate successful therapy outcomes. Here are some key terms related to communication strategies in the context of physical therapy for developmental delays:
1 #
Active Listening
Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully concentrating… #
It is important for therapists to actively listen to children and their families to demonstrate empathy and build rapport.
2 #
Assistive Communication Devices
Assistive communication devices are tools or technologies that help individuals… #
These devices can include communication boards, speech-generating devices, and software applications.
3 #
Body Language
Body language refers to the nonverbal signals that individuals use to communicat… #
Physical therapists should be aware of their own body language and the body language of children and families to ensure effective communication.
4 #
Cultural Competence
Cultural competence involves understanding and respecting the values, beliefs, a… #
Physical therapists should be culturally competent to effectively communicate with children and families from different cultural backgrounds.
5 #
Empathy
6. Family #
Centered Care
Family #
centered care is an approach to healthcare that involves collaborating with families in decision-making and goal-setting. Physical therapists should involve families in the therapy process and communicate openly and transparently with them.
7 #
Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, body language, an… #
Physical therapists should pay attention to nonverbal cues when communicating with children and families to ensure effective communication.
8 #
Parent Education
Parent education involves providing families with information, resources, and st… #
Physical therapists should communicate with parents regularly to educate them on therapeutic techniques and home exercises.
9 #
Therapeutic Play
Therapeutic play is a technique used by physical therapists to engage children i… #
Play can help children feel comfortable, build trust, and improve communication with the therapist.
10 #
Visual Supports
Visual supports are tools such as pictures, symbols, and written words that help… #
Physical therapists can use visual supports to enhance communication with children and families.
11 #
Goal Setting
Goal setting involves collaboratively establishing specific, measurable, achieva… #
Physical therapists should communicate with children and families to set meaningful goals that align with their priorities and expectations.
12 #
Feedback
Feedback is information provided to individuals about their performance or progr… #
Physical therapists should give constructive feedback to children and families to motivate them, reinforce positive behaviors, and address areas for improvement.
13 #
Collaboration
Collaboration involves working together with children, families, and other healt… #
Physical therapists should communicate effectively and collaborate with all stakeholders involved in the child's care to provide holistic and coordinated therapy services.
14 #
Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution is the process of addressing and resolving disagreements or… #
Physical therapists should use effective communication skills to manage conflicts and maintain positive relationships with all parties involved.
15 #
Parent Support Groups
Parent support groups are communities or organizations that provide emotional, i… #
Physical therapists can refer families to support groups to connect with other parents facing similar challenges and access resources and services.
16 #
Home Program
A home program is a set of therapeutic activities, exercises, and strategies tha… #
Physical therapists should provide families with a personalized home program and communicate clear instructions and expectations.
17 #
Individualized Care
Individualized care involves tailoring therapy interventions and strategies to m… #
Physical therapists should communicate with children and families to develop personalized treatment plans that address their specific concerns and priorities.
18 #
Language Development
Language development refers to the process of acquiring and using language skill… #
Physical therapists should support children's language development through communication strategies that enhance their expressive and receptive language abilities.
19 #
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a counseling approach that helps individuals explor… #
Physical therapists can use motivational interviewing techniques to empower children and families to set goals, make positive changes, and take ownership of their therapy journey.
20. Self #
Determination
Self #
determination is the ability to make choices, set goals, and advocate for one's own needs and preferences. Physical therapists should support children's self-determination by involving them in decision-making, encouraging autonomy, and fostering independence in therapy sessions.
21 #
Sensory Strategies
Sensory strategies are techniques that help children regulate their sensory expe… #
Physical therapists can use sensory strategies to create a sensory-friendly environment, support sensory integration, and promote engagement and participation in therapy activities.
22 #
Social Skills
Social skills are the behaviors and interactions that individuals use to communi… #
Physical therapists can work on developing social skills with children through role-playing, modeling, and social stories to improve their social communication and relationships.
23 #
Telehealth
Telehealth is the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, suc… #
Physical therapists can use telehealth to provide virtual therapy sessions, consultation, and support to children and families, especially in situations where in-person visits are not possible.
24 #
Transdisciplinary Team
A transdisciplinary team is a group of professionals from different disciplines… #
Physical therapists can be part of a transdisciplinary team that includes speech therapists, occupational therapists, educators, and other specialists to address the holistic needs of the child.
25 #
Verbal Communication
Verbal communication involves using spoken words to convey messages, information… #
Physical therapists should communicate clearly, concisely, and at an appropriate level for children and families to understand and engage in therapy discussions.
Effective communication strategies with children and families are crucial for bu… #
By applying these communication techniques and principles in practice, physical therapists can create a supportive and collaborative environment that empowers children and families to reach their full potential.