Teaching Your Child to Communicate Assertively 

Assertive communication is about expressing your thoughts, feelings and needs in a calm and respectful way. It is key for confidence building! The fear of seeming rude or selfish can prevent children from speaking up for themselves. Assertiveness isn't natural to most and needs to be taught and practiced. Here are some helpful tips to help your child communicate assertively.

• Practice your assertive communication at home. Children often learn by watching – kids are more likely to follow modelled behaviours. 
• Use 'I' statement like, 'I feel frustrated when…' or 'I really want this but…
  'I' statements help remove blaming language and communicates the thought, feeling or need.
• Roleplay common scenarios and give your child simple scripts such as:
  'When you do ____, it makes me feel ____. Can you please ____?
• Praise assertiveness when you see it. 'That was really brave and respectful!' or 'you said that so clear and kind, now I know exactly what you need!'
• Help your child to practice tone, volume and body language. If they speak quickly, help them slow down their speech. 

With practice, children can master assertive communication and gain lifelong benefits including healthier relationships, better problem-solving skills and confidence in standing up for themselves.  

Parent/Carer Tips