Being a Good Communication Partner Tip 7: Be an Active Listener
The people around an AAC user are communication partners. AAC users interact with many communication partners across their day. Good communication partners are critical! Our actions during a communication interaction influence the "vibe" of that encounter. This month, we are talking about how we can grow and improve as communication partners!
Our next tip is to be patient and listen for understanding.
AAC Users: what would you add or change?
[Image 1 text: Being a Good Communication Partner Tip #7: Be an Active Listener. www.nwacs.info
Image 2 text: Be a Good Communication Partner. Good communication partners are patient and listen for understanding. Be sure to allow time for the AAC user to finish what they are saying. Stay non-judgmental and non-directive. Focus on trying to understand their idea or message.
Image 3 text: Be a Good Communication Partner.
- Give your undivided attention.
- Listen with all your senses. Gather information from all their signals to help you understand their intended message.
- Show that you are listening (e.g., look at them, move closer or change body position, nod, make sounds to indicate you are listening, etc.).
Image 4 text: Be a Good Communication Partner.
- Ask clarifying questions to help develop your understanding.
- Confirm you have understood their message.
- Help repair communication breakdowns.]