Page 79 - PSPS: A Training guide

Unit 8 Communication

Introduction

‘I think the worst thing in the world is being talked at. You know, when someone just
wants you to sit there and listen as if you are a child as well. I want to say ‘listen, we are
all adults here’ but I never do’
(Catherine, mom of 2)

This training unit is intended to help parents and educators/other relevant transition
professionals in their roles supporting children as they move from preschool to
primary school. It offers practical advice to help improve their ability to support
children effectively during this important educational milestone.

In order to ensure a child's successful transition, preschools and primary schools
closely collaborate with educators/transition professionals who have significant
knowledge and experience in supporting children during this process. By engaging
with this unit, they can improve their understanding of the families’ point of view and
acquire useful advice on efficient communication techniques. They can establish a
nurturing environment that gives the child's wellbeing and successful adjustment top
priority by having effective communication with everyone involved in that process.

Parents understand their child's wishes, worries, and strengths because they are their
primary carers and educators. In this unit, parents can also find practical advice on
how to successfully and comfortably engage in meaningful dialogues with their child,
teachers, other relevant professionals and primary schools. Parents, with the help of
the appropriate communication tools can create a supportive and nurturing
atmosphere for their child, which is fundamental for a smooth transition.

This training unit recognises the significance of a collaborative approach to supporting
children during the transition from preschool to primary school through effective
communication in order to enhance the abilities of all stakeholders, ultimately
benefiting the child.

Learning Objectives

The objectives of this Communications training unit are to give parents and
educators/transition professionals the knowledge and skills they need to
communicate successfully during the transition process and beyond.

These include:
Assisting parents and educators/transition specialists in the development of
effective communication skills to support the child as they transition from
preschool to primary school
Strengthening the capacity of parents and educators to engage in meaningful
and opencommunication with the child as well as the institutions involved