What ChatGPT Taught Me About Communicating With Children

Hey everyone,

This week’s episode was inspired by a very relatable moment in the car when I repeatedly asked my phone to call someone, only for it to misunderstand me every single time.

I changed my tone, slowed down, repeated myself, tried a different accent and eventually spelled the name out. When the call finally worked, it made me think about how naturally we adjust the way we communicate with technology.

We give ChatGPT more context. We speak more slowly to Alexa. We repeat ourselves when our car does not understand us. We change the words we use until the message is clear. But how often do we make those same adjustments for our children? ​In this episode, we talk about: 💫 Why communication is about adjusting, not getting it right the first time 💫 Slowing down and simplifying the language we use 💫 Giving children more time to process and respond 💫 Using repetition, pauses and clearer instructions 💫 Learning from the way we communicate with AI and technology 💫 Helping children feel included, understood and valued ​ This episode is a reminder that when communication is not working, it does not always mean the other person is not listening or understanding.

​Sometimes, we need to change the way we are delivering the message.

We already do this every day with technology, so let’s offer our children that same patience, flexibility and willingness to try again.

🌿 Connection Creates Communication Wondering what to do while you wait for speech therapy? Connection Creates Communication is my new 6-week program for parents of children aged 0–5, designed to give you practical, everyday strategies to support your child's communication at home. ​ 👉🏼 Learn more & Join: ⁠⁠Connection Creates Communication⁠⁠​ ​ Questions? Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ or send me a DM on Instagram.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.