Module 4, Handout 10: Helpful Hints to Effective Communication

Module 4, Handout 10: Helpful Hints to Effective Communication

• The goal in communicating with professionals and families is to build collaborative relationships.

• Respect professionals’ time.

• Keep clear and detailed notes of your communications.

• Building relationships with other providers means you have to learn a new language, bureaucracy, and policies for each new professional that joins the team.

• Navigating through these systems is a complicated process since each sector works under its own set of polices and has its own language. Acknowledging that these challenges exist is the first step to reducing tension among providers and creating collaborative goals.

• Each adult that joins the child’s team has a responsibility to collaborate among team members, yet they also are each responsible for meeting a specific need or goal for that child.

• Providers are often faced with the challenge of collaborating with other providers while still being held by their agencies polices. Although each provider works towards supporting children and families, many face challenges working with other provides and working under budgetary and other constraints.

• Healthy communication with other providers can be developed by focusing on joining with the other professionals and working to also support their goals. This strategy works towards developing an understanding of their perspective and conveys an open and non-judgmental attitude.

• Another helpful strategy is developing a sense of curiosity for the provider by having empathy for the pressure polices and bureaucracy they are accountable to. This simple skill is foundational to building at healthy working relationship.

• Finally, a critical part of communication is being sensitive and responsive to each person’s unique communication style and cultural background. Remaining curious, and open will help you take into account the individual nature of each new professional you interact with and develop a strong working relationship.

Child Development Institute, 2013