Welcome to this learning object brought to you by the Social Care Institute for Excellence

This learning object looks how play, activities and the creative arts can be used to communicate with children and young people.

Before you begin you may want to read the useful information listed below.

Learning aims

By the end of this learning object you will have an enhanced understanding of

Why play-based, creative and activity-based methods can help children and young people to communicate, including:

  • the limitations of direct methods of communication
  • the importance of symbolism and metaphor
  • the dangers of interpretation

What kind of underpinning knowledge and theoretical frameworks are helpful using play and creative activities

How to select the best mode and method of communication for particular contexts, purposes and children (e.g. artwork, stories, puppets)

The importance of use of self, including preparation, self-awareness, reflection, ethical commitments and emotional availability

Transferability of this perspective to other age groups

Estimated time required

30 mins

Instructions

Work through the sections in order, starting with Introduction.