Positive Nonverbal Behaviors (E2.1.11)
Sub Category: Relationships with Individual Children: Security, Warmth, and Responsiveness
Credential Level: Level 1 •
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K
COMPETENCY STATEMENT
Uses frequent positive nonverbal behaviors to increase feelings of acceptance (smiles, sits at child’s level, allows child to sit near or with teacher, reassuring touch)
DEFINITIONS
Teachers use positive body language constantly when interacting with children in the classroom. Interactions with increase emotional security
EXAMPLES
Positive Nonverbal Behaviors
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this exemplar video, a teacher is spending quiet time with two babies. Notice how the teacher is interacting positively and warmly with the infants– all examples of ways teachers can use frequent positive non-verbal behaviors to increase feelings of acceptance.
Positive Nonverbal Behaviors
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher comforts a child who has fallen and gently praises another child for offering support. Notice how the teacher uses warm, calm words and positive reinforcement—an example of providing physical and emotional security through responsive verbal and non-verbal behaviors.
Positive Nonverbal Behaviors
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher reads a book about different feelings and what causes them. Notice how she sits close to the children, smiles, and makes them feel safe—an example of using warm, nonverbal actions to support emotional development.
WAYS TO PRACTICE
Build It and Knock It Down
Age Group: Infant, Toddler
Age Group: Infant, Toddler
In this Circle Activity, children explore cause and effect as they knock down structures made from blocks or stacking cups in order to support cognitive, physical health, and motor development. This activity can be used to promote positive interactions and provide the teacher an opportunity to use frequent positive non-verbal behaviors to increase feelings of acceptance.
Build It and Knock It Down
Age Group: Infant, Toddler
Age Group: Infant, Toddler
In this Circle Activity, children explore cause and effect as they knock down structures made from blocks or stacking cups in order to support cognitive, physical health, and motor development. This activity can be used to promote positive interactions and provide the teacher an opportunity to use frequent positive non-verbal behaviors to increase feelings of acceptance.