Non-verbal Communication in a Kindergarten Setting

What is non-verbal communication?

Language can be distinguished bet- ween that which is spoken, known as verbal communication, and that which is unspoken, known as non-verbal communication, i.e., “body language”. Non-verbal communication is the ability for a child or an adult to communicate without the use of spoken words, and this includes grunts, hand gestures, facial expressions or pointing. Non-verbal communication can exist on an unconscious level, as we may use gestures or facial expressions without consciously intending to do so. In his communication model, Paul Watzlawik argues that one cannot not communicate: “As soon as two people are together, conscious or subconscious communication takes place” (Watzlawick, Beavin, & Jack- son, 1967, p. 51). When your spoken words contradict your body language, it can be very confusing, especially for children. They rely on the information they get from non-verbal communication in an interaction as much as they do on spoken words.