Non-Verbal Signals

Nonverbal Signals

“As you introduce and decide on nonverbal signals to use in the classroom, be sensitive to your students’ responses, which may be influenced by their cultural background.”

Gayle Macklem, co-author of the Social Competency Program

Purpose

• To decide on some nonverbal signals to use in the classroom
• To use nonverbal signals during the school day so that they become an established part of the classroom management

Introducing Being a Good Listener with Students

• Explain that a nonverbal signal is a way of communication without words.
• Brainstorm nonverbal signals that they have used and decide on three or four that might be helpful in the classroom.
• Post the nonverbal signals chosen as a reference for all members of the class. 
• Ask students to take responsibility for making nonverbal signals work. It is particularly helpful when students can be aware of a need for others to quiet down and can initiate the signal themselves.

Parent Communication

• Open parent communication is a vital component of a successful social skills curriculum. Ideas for communication include:
• Having students share what they have learned about this topic with a parent
• Addressing this topic in your weekly newsletter home
• Sending home a letter to parents addressing the topic in your classroom. An example letter is available in the Social Skills Dropbox.

From the Classroom…K-2

• Have students draw one picture of a nonverbal signal and label it.
• Cut out a picture of a nonverbal signal, glue it on paper, and label it.

From the Classroom…3-5

• Take photos of children using the signals the class agreed on, label them, and display them in the classroom…a poster can be a helpful reminder for students to use nonverbal signals.