Teacher Toolbox

Chronic misunderstanding of nonverbal cues

  • Make sure that the verbal message matches with the nonverbal signals when talking with a student.
    Example: Don't smile at a child when correcting bad behavior.

  • Provide direct instruction on how to notice what body position, vocal intonation, and gestures imply. Children with FASD may confuse gestures and need to have the meanings explicitly explained.
    Example: Tell a child that when you look at him and place your hands on your hips and shake your head left to right, it means that what he is doing is wrong and he needs to stop doing it.

  • Provide practice understanding non-verbal cues in a non-threatening environment. Since non-verbal cues are usually linked to physical responses from others, they can be stressful.

    facial expressions Feelings Game