Social communication refers to the way people exchange information, thoughts and feelings in social contexts. It involves using and understanding a range of verbal and non-verbal skills, including:
Some children and young people can find using and interpreting these skills more difficult which can make it harder for them to interact with other people. Effective social communication helps build relationships, facilitate understanding, and navigate social situations.
Your child may want to make friends or form relationships but finds it hard due to their social communication differences. They may be content with their own company and happier not being pressured to interact. It's for you as their parents and carers, and those closest to them, to learn their preferences and not pressure them to fit in with the 'norm'.
If your child has communication differences, interactions with others can be confusing. Some young people may find it hard to communicate what they want or misinterpret the signals that people are sending them, like eye contact, facial expressions and body language. Their sensory profile may mean they switch their attention between different people and activities or focus solely on one particular activity. These differences can have an impact on them being able to listen, pay attention and react as expected.
Many young children learn how to use speech sounds and language without thinking about it, through being immersed in sound and through interaction starting in the womb. However for some children, language can be more challenging to learn, and they may talk in different ways, or much later than their peers.
Speech and language can differ in several ways, including:
Your child may have clear speech but struggle with their social interaction and communication. Examples of differences in communication and interaction include:
Where social communication and interaction are the only speech and language differences, you should approach your GP to discuss, if you have any concerns.
If you have concerns about your child's speech, language and communication you could call Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 for advice or see the links below.
Encouraging social skills and expectations can have a positive effect on your child’s self-confidence and mental well-being. Some areas in which children with social communication needs may need individualised support include:
Find strategies to support autism and social interaction here
Children and young people with social communication needs experience a range of emotions, but they might need support to recognise, understand and manage them. They might also need support to recognise, interpret and respond appropriately to other people’s emotions.
For example, they might not notice when someone else looks confused or feels upset or angry. Or they might see someone who’s upset and incorrectly think that the person is angry at them.
You can use everyday interactions to help children learn about emotions. Here are some ideas and tips:
These quick tips can help you communicate more effectively with your child, by helping you gain their attention, support them in processing information and being clear.
You may notice your child is unable to rely on speech to communicate all of their needs. If this is the case, you may need to use additional strategies, or communication aids to help them communicate their thoughts, views and needs.
Many neurodivergent children use a combination of methods to suit their preferences in different situations. They can take many forms, for example, non-powered systems including gestures, signs, symbols and communication books/boards. Powered methods include single message switches, computer-based systems and iPads.
For some children, this will be a short-term solution to support them whilst their speech is developing while for others Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), in one form or another, will be an important part of their communication throughout their life.
Sometimes extra visual clues can help children understand spoken language better. Many children will find that having support available makes it easier to process what is happening. Visual supports can come in the form of photographs, symbols, pictures or objects and give young people more time to process the information they need.
Neurodivergent children can benefit from visual support because it can make tasks more predictable, understandable and positive. Knowing what will happen next can reduce stress, lead to calmer and more cooperative behaviour, and help children understand how to do something.
Let us know what you think!
We've been working together in Norfolk and Waveney with families and professionals to put together information, advice and resources that are helpful to families. Let us know what you think, and anything we could change or add to make it even better.
If you live in Norfolk
You can contact the Healthy Child Service team by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
If you live in Waveney
Norfolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Norfolk.
Suffolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Waveney.
Mencap is a national charity who support people with learning disabilities. They offer a free Learning Disability Helpline with advice and guidance. Call 0808 808 1111 to speak to a trained professional.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
